System and method for neuro-stimulation

ABSTRACT

A neuro-stimulation system employs a includes a stimulator which may include electrode devices and/or vibration elements. A controller may be employed to drive the stimulating elements with an electrical signal. In response to the electrical signal, the stimulating elements deliver electrical and/or mechanical stimulation to the body part. The stimulation may be an aperiodic stimulation and/or may be a subthreshold stimulation. In one embodiment, the stimulator is disposable and the processor determines usage of the stimulator and ensures that the stimulator is limited to a certain amount of use. Neuro-stimulation systems may be applied to sensory cells of body parts during movement of the body parts to induce neuroplastic changes. Such movement may involve a variety of therapeutic applications, e.g. in stroke patient therapy.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No.10/429,252 filed May 5, 2003, the contents of which are incorporatedherein by reference. U.S. application Ser. No. 10/429,252 claims thebenefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/377,202 filed May3, 2002, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.This application also claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 60/880,026 filed Jan. 12, 2007, the contents of whichare incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

1. Field of Invention

The present invention is generally directed to a system for providingneuro-stimulation, and more particularly, to a system that employselectrical current and/or mechanical vibration to deliver subthresholdand/or aperiodic stimulation to enhance detection and communication ofsensory information.

2. Description of the Related Art

The nervous system of mammals is a complex set of interrelated andinteracting sub-systems. The sub-systems are categorized and named bothby their anatomic positions and by their function. At the highest level,the nervous system is divided into central and peripheral nervoussystems. The central nervous system (CNS) is comprised of the brain andspinal cord; the peripheral nervous system (PNS) subsumes all theremaining neural structures found outside the CNS. The PNS is furtherdivided functionally into the somatic (voluntary) and autonomic(involuntary) nervous systems. The PNS can also be describedstructurally as being comprised of afferent (sensory) nerves, whichcarry information toward the CNS, and efferent (motor) nerves, whichcarry commands away from the CNS.

Interconnections between afferent and efferent nerves are found in thespinal cord and brain. Taken together, certain groupings of afferent andefferent nerves constitute sensorimotor “loops” that are required toachieve coordinated movements in the face of perturbations from theenvironment and changes in volitional intent. In the periphery (trunk,upper extremities, and lower extremities), afferent nerves carry sensoryinformation arising from special neurons that are sensitive to pain,temperature, and mechanical stimuli such as touch and vibration at theskin surface, and position, force, and stretch of deeper structures suchas muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joint capsule. The term“proprioception” generally applies to sensory information directlyrelevant to limb position sense and muscle contraction. Combined withtactile (touch) sensation, mechanical sensory information iscollectively known as “somatosensation.”

Specialized “mechanoreceptor” neurons transduce mechanical stimuli fromthe body's interaction with the environment into electrical signals thatcan be transmitted and interpreted by the nervous system. Paciniancorpuscles in the skin fire in response to touch pressure. Musclespindles, found interspersed in skeletal muscle tissue, report on thestate of stretch of the surrounding muscle. Golgi tendon organs sensethe level of force in the tendon. Free nerve endings in structuressurrounding joints (ligaments, meniscus, etc.) provide additionalinformation about joint position. Some of these mechanoreceptor systemsare thought to interact directly via excitatory and inhibitory synapsesand descending pathways to modulate the performance or interpretation ofsignals from other mechanoreceptor systems.

Sensory cells of all types are typically threshold-based units. That is,if the stimulus to a sensory cell is of insufficient magnitude, the cellwill not activate and begin signaling. Such a stimulus is called“subthreshold.” A stimulus that is above the threshold is called“suprathreshold.”

Connections within the nervous system-brain, spinal cord, and peripheralnerves are highly changeable in the face of demands placed on the body.New forms of activity, pathologies, and injuries all can lead to durablechanges, both beneficial and deleterious, in the nervous system. Inhealthy individuals, these neurological changes allow for theacquisition of new physical skills, a process termed “motor learning.”Following certain types of soft tissue injury (e.g. rupture of theanterior cruciate ligament of the knee, a structure known to be rich inmechanoreceptors), and subsequent medical efforts such as surgery usedto repair the damage, the nervous system can undergo compensatorychanges to accommodate for loss of the natural sensory neurons. SimilarPNS and CNS nervous system changes account for some individuals' abilityto regain lost motor function following spinal or brain injuries. Takentogether, these structural changes in the nervous systems—the creationof new useful interconnections or the pruning away of unusedpathways—are termed “neuroplasticity” or “neuroplastic changes.”

Recent research has established that afferent (sensory) activity fromthe periphery is one of the key drivers of neuroplastic changes in thenervous system, both in the PNS and CNS.

Stimulation below perception levels (i.e. subthreshold stimulation) usedto enhance the function of sensory cells is described in U.S. Pat. Nos.5,782,873 and 6,032,074 to Collins, the entire contents of which areincorporated by reference. Collins discloses a method and apparatus forimproving the function of sensory cells by effectively lowering theirthreshold of firing. Briefly, a subthreshold stimulation, or subsensorystimulation or “bias signal,” is input to the sensory neuron therebypredisposing the neuron to firing, without actually causing it to fire.In some embodiments, the stimulation may have an aperiodic waveform. Inone particular embodiment, the bias signal is a broadband signalcontaining many frequencies, often termed “white noise.” Since sensorycells are typically threshold-based units, lowering the sensory cellthreshold decreases the level of outside stimulus needed to cause thesensory cell to respond (i.e. fire). Thus, the sensory cell, in thepresence of the bias signal, is expected to respond to stimulusintensities that would normally be considered subthreshold to the neuronin the absence of noise. Both electrical and mechanical modalities ofbias signal, used individually or in combination, may be used to effectthe lowering of sensory neuron detection threshold. In other words, thestimulation essentially energizes sensory neurons based on a principletermed “stochastic resonance” (SR), so that they are predisposed to firein response to stimuli from the environment. By increasing thesensitivity of mechanoreceptors, it is possible effectively to boost theflow of sensory information traveling from muscles, joints, and skin tothe body's control centers in a fashion that is concordant with normalfunction.

One exemplary clinical use of increased sensory information is in therehabilitation of individuals who suffer loss of sensorimotor functionfollowing stroke. According to the American Stroke Association, strokeis the leading cause of serious, long-term disability in the U.S., withthe annual cost of stroke-related care expected to exceed $58 billion in2006. Approximately 700,000 cases of stroke occur each year in the U.S.As a result, over 460,000 patients a year are left with motorimpairments, the most common of which is hemi-paresis, a weakness orpartial paralysis of the body. In addition, a majority of the 5.5million stroke survivors in the U.S. have some degree of impairment.While many patients improve with current physical rehabilitationtherapy, most are left with significant motor deficits. Full recoveryfrom stroke is uncommon. Thus, additional techniques for reversing themotor deficits caused by stroke are necessary. Boosting sensory trafficusing the present invention is one such technique. A similar exemplaryclinical use is physical rehabilitation for individuals who havesuffered traumatic brain injury. Further exemplary clinical uses arisein treatment of individuals who have a temporary or permanent loss ofsensory function resulting from aging, disease, or physical injury. Forsuch individuals, the therapy is directed less toward drivingneuroplastic changes and more toward providing an ongoing sensory boostas a palliative treatment for a chronic sensory condition.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention provide neuro-stimulation systemsthat deliver stimulation to enhance the function of sensory cells. Inview of the foregoing, an exemplary application applies aneuro-stimulation system to reverse the sensorimotor deficits caused bystroke. Focusing on mechanical sensory neurons in the periphery,embodiments of the present invention take advantage of the interplaybetween mechanoreceptors and neuromuscular performance. These sensoryneurons provide touch, motion, and force feedback that is contributes tocoordinated movement, acquisition of motor skills, and reestablishingsensorimotor function following injury. As such, embodiments of thepresent invention apply stimulation to mechanoreceptors to increasetheir ability to transmit sensory information. The mechanoreceptorsreceiving stimulation may include, for instance, subcutaneousmechanoreceptors as well as receptors in deeper structures. Thisstimulation enhances mechanical sensory information provided to thespinal cord and brain.

A neuro-stimulation system according to an exemplary embodiment mayemploy a controller which includes a user interface, a power supply, atleast one electrical connector, and a processor with software. Accordingto values entered into the user interface, the controller determines anelectrical signal directed from the power supply to the electricalconnector. The neuro-stimulation system also includes a stimulatordetachably coupled to the controller via the electrical connector. Thestimulator has a plurality of stimulating elements, including,optionally, at least one electrode device and/or at least one vibrationelement. The stimulator also includes an attachment element to attachthe stimulator to a body part. The controller is operable, via the userinterface, to drive at least one of the stimulating elements with anelectrical signal, which in turn deliver electrical and/or mechanicalstimulation to the body part. The vibration elements and/or electrodesmay be driven to deliver stimulation that is subthreshold and/orstimulation that has an aperiodic waveform. In one particularembodiment, the stimulator is disposable and the processor determinesusage of the stimulator and ensures that the stimulator is limited to acertain amount of use.

In an exemplary application, the neuro-stimulation system above isemployed adjunctive to movement of a body part. For example, suchmovement may be employed as a part of post-stroke rehabilitativetherapy. By applying stimulation from the neuro-stimulation system inproximity to the region of the body affected by stroke, the neuroplasticprocess (the creation of new sensorimotor pathways that allow healthyareas of the brain to assume the functions of the damaged portion) isenhanced. This therapy is particularly effective when used inconjunction with physical rehabilitation procedures. As such, preferredembodiments of the neuro-stimulation system may have small, lightweightcomponents which facilitate the application of stimulation duringphysical therapy and do not interfere with the therapy with wires,connection cables, etc.

Other embodiments of the present invention may have other configurationsand shapes for delivering controlled stimulation to any sensory cells ofany body part according to a variety of therapeutic applications. Someembodiments may include only electrodes while others include onlyvibrating elements for delivering stimulation. For some applications, itmay be preferable to include all components of a neuro-stimulationsystem in a single housing that is applied to the targeted body part. Onthe other hand, for other applications, it may be preferable to includethe stimulator in an application body, i.e., a housing applied to thebody part, while the controller has a separate housing which may beplaced at a distance from the application body. Moreover, in otherembodiments, a neuro-stimulation system may be incorporated within thestructure of another distinct device, e.g., a wearable garment, wherethe application of stimulation improves an operator's ability to use thedevice or to enhance the effectiveness of the device. In yet otherembodiments, stimulator elements (whether strictly electrical,mechanical, or both) may be implanted under the skin of the subject. Thecontroller that is attached to the implanted stimulator elements mayitself also be implanted, with connecting means traversing under theskin to the stimulator elements. In addition, the controller may remainextracorporeal with connecting means passing through the skin to theimplanted stimulator elements.

Still other aspects, features, and advantages of the present inventionare readily apparent from the following detailed description, byillustrating a number of exemplary embodiments and implementations,including the best mode contemplated for carrying out the presentinvention. The present invention is also capable of other and differentembodiments, and its several details can be modified in variousrespects, all without departing from the spirit and scope of the presentinvention. Accordingly, the drawings and descriptions are to be regardedas illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 is a flow chart of a method for enhancing the function of asensory cell.

FIG. 2 is a flow chart of a method of locating an input area.

FIG. 3 is a flow chart of a method of generating a bias signal.

FIG. 4 is a schematic depiction of a system for enhancing the functionof a sensory cell.

FIGS. 5A-5B illustrates an system for enhancing sensorimotorperformance.

FIG. 6 is illustrates a signal generator of the present invention.

FIG. 7 illustrates wearable device, as one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 8A-8B illustrate wearable device, as another embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 9 illustrates a signal input device of the present invention.

FIG. 10A illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a neuro-stimulationsystem, including a stimulator for delivering electrical and/ormechanical stimulation and a controller for driving the stimulator.

FIG. 10B illustrates the exemplary neuro-stimulation system of FIG. 10Acoupled to an attachment element for securing the neuro-stimulationsystem to a body part.

FIG. 11 illustrates a graph of success in executing a motor task versustime for six study groups in a stroke rehabilitation study examining theeffects of sensory enhancement stimulation when applied duringpost-stroke rehabilitative therapy.

FIG. 12 illustrates yet another graph of success in executing a motortask versus time for the six study groups in the stroke rehabilitationstudy of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13A illustrates the exemplary neuro-stimulation system of FIG. 10Asecured to a subject's arm for use during post-stroke rehabilitativetherapy.

FIG. 13B further illustrates the exemplary neuro-stimulation system ofFIG. 10A secured to a subject's arm for use during post-strokerehabilitative therapy.

FIG. 14A illustrates the stimulator of the exemplary neuro-stimulationsystem of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 14B further illustrates the stimulator of the exemplaryneuro-stimulation system of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 15A illustrates the controller of the exemplary neuro-stimulationsystem of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 15B further illustrates the controller of the exemplaryneuro-stimulation system of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 16 illustrates the circuit of the exemplary neuro-stimulationsystem of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 17 illustrates an exemplary method for operating the exemplaryneuro-stimulation system of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 18 illustrates an exemplary method for employing a read-writestorage device for limiting use of a disposable stimulator for anexemplary embodiment of a neuro-stimulation system.

FIG. 19 illustrates a recharging base for the exemplaryneuro-stimulation system of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 20A illustrates a chart of the spectral content of exemplarymechanical stimulation for an exemplary embodiment of aneuro-stimulation system.

FIG. 20B illustrates a chart of the spectral content of exemplaryelectrical stimulation for an exemplary embodiment of aneuro-stimulation system.

FIG. 20C illustrates a chart of exemplary random noise signalcorresponding to stimulation by an exemplary embodiment of aneuro-stimulation system.

FIG. 21A illustrates an exemplary configuration for a neuro-stimulationsystem which may be employed to direct stimulation to any sensory cellsof any body part to enhance detection of a sensory signal by a subject.

FIG. 21B illustrates another exemplary configuration for aneuro-stimulation system which may be employed to direct stimulation toany sensory cells of any body part to enhance detection of a sensorysignal by a subject.

FIG. 21C illustrates yet another exemplary configuration for aneuro-stimulation system which may be employed to direct stimulation toany sensory cells of any body part to enhance detection of a sensorysignal by a subject.

FIG. 22A illustrates an exemplary neuro-stimulation system forapplication to an internal organ.

FIG. 22B illustrates an exemplary neuro-stimulation system having acatheter-like configuration with a plurality of electrodes, each ofwhich may be selectively driven.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Throughout this specification and the drawing figures associated withthis specification, numerical labels of previously shown or discussedfeatures may be reused in another drawing figure to indicate similarfeatures.

The preferred embodiments of the present invention provide a method andsystem for improving sensorimotor performance of humans, non-humanmammals, and non-mammalian animals, hereinafter termed “subjects.”Improvements in sensorimotor performance are meant to include immediate,i.e., acute, effects, such as improved dynamic joint stability, and moredurable effects as would result from neuroplastic changes in the PNS orCNS. The method comprises inputting a bias signal to sensory cells ofthe subject, so as to improve the function of those sensory cells byeffectively lowering their threshold of firing, while the subjectengages in physical activity. Such physical activity may or may not bespecifically pre-defined depending upon the desired outcome. Acting inconjunction with this preferred method is a preferred apparatus thatcomprises a wearable device and other electromechanical components thatprovide a convenient and secure means of delivering the bias signal tothe subject. As used herein, the term “bias signal” will be taken tomean a subthreshold form of stimulation to a sensory neuron, whetherelectrical or mechanical in nature, whose waveform may be periodic,aperiodic, deterministic, or non-deterministic and may contain one ormany frequencies.

The method and system according to the preferred embodiments of thepresent invention are useful, for example, to enhance sensorimotorfunction in healthy individuals as well as in individuals withdisorders, diseases and/or injuries. For example, the method and systemcould be used by healthy individuals striving to learn a new motorskill, such as might be required for athletic activity. In anotherexample, the method and system could be applied to individuals withelevated sensory thresholds or other neurological dysfunction, such asmight arise from aging, peripheral neuropathies, or strokes.

FIG. 1 is a flow chart of a method for enhancing the function of asensory neuron according to one embodiment of the present invention. Instep 102, an area associated with the sensory cell whose function is tobe enhanced and to which a bias signal is to be input is located. Thelocated area is hereinafter referred to as the input area. Once theinput area has been located, the bias signal is generated in step 104.Then in step 106, the bias signal is input to the input area so as toeffectively lower the threshold of sensory cells with which the inputarea is associated.

FIG. 2 is a flow chart showing one embodiment of locating an input areaaccording to step 102. Locating the input area depends, inter alia, onthe sensory system whose function is to be improved and the method bywhich a bias signal may be input to sensory cells associated with thesensory system. Step 202 is a preliminary step in which anidentification scheme is undertaken to identify a particular sensorysystem whose function is to be enhanced. The identification scheme, tosome extent, depends on the cooperation of the individual. That is, thisstep is similar to a diagnosis, however, the individual need not besuffering from any disease or disorder to be subject to the enhancementprocess contemplated herein. In one embodiment, the sensory system whosefunction is to be enhanced is one whose function has been degraded bydisease.

In an alternative embodiment, the sensory system to be enhanced is onethat functions normally. In step 204, the most appropriate way ofinputting a bias signal to the target sensory system is determined. Themost appropriate input means depends on a number of factors including,the target sensory system, the nature of the transduction system for thetarget sensory system, the present state of the target sensory system(i.e., whether it is impaired or in any way dysfunctional), and thenature of the signal which is to be determined (e.g., the amplitude andfrequency content of the signal). Input means that are appropriate incertain circumstances include, but are by no means limited to, nervecuffs, implanted electrodes, surface electrodes, muscle stimulators,tendon stimulators and magnetic field stimulators.

Once the most appropriate input means is determined in step 204, theinput area is determined in step 206. The location of an input areadepends on the same factors as the determination of the most appropriateinput means. The location of the input area, however, varies for aparticular input means depending on, among other factors, whether thetarget sensory system is in any way dysfunctional, the cause andlocation of any such dysfunctionality, and the nature of the stimulatorto be used. More specifically, if a dysfunctionality caused by somephysical damage to sensory cells is present in the sensory system, itmay be necessary to locate the input area such that the bias signal willbypass the physical damage causing the dysfunctionality. Further, thefact that some stimulators, e.g. implanted electrodes or vibratoryelements, may require invasive procedures while others, e.g., surfaceelectrodes or vibratory elements, require only noninvasive procedures isalso a factor to consider.

Once the input area is determined and the input means installed, thebias signal to be input is generated. FIG. 3 shows one embodiment of amethod of generating a bias signal. In an initial step 302, the biassignal is calibrated. That is, an optimal level for the bias signal isdetermined. Depending on the determinations of steps 204 and 206, thereexists a particular form of bias signal for which the signal detectionability of a given neuron in the target sensory system is optimallyenhanced. For example, a bias signal having parameters with certainpredetermined values will give rise to optimal enhancement. Calibrationhelps to ensure that certain parameters of the bias signals generatedwill be adjusted to achieve optimal enhancement. Examples of signalparameters of the bias signal that may be calibrated are amplitude(whether measured as peak-to-peak, RMS, or some other method), frequencyor frequency content (as determined perhaps by signal spectrumanalysis), offset (D.C. bias), intensity, and variance (e.g. thecomputed time-based standard deviation in signal amplitude). Calibrationis typically accomplished prior to installation of the enhancementsystem and may be accomplished intermittently while the enhancementsystem is installed. If calibration is to take place while theenhancement system is installed, then it is desirable to install theenhancement system so it is accessible from the outside of the body sothat calibration may be accomplished noninvasively.

In one embodiment, the calibration is accomplished by inputting an inputsignal of interest to a sensory cell coupled with a bias signal producedby the enhancement system. The response of the sensory cell to thecombined input is recorded as a function of a parameter of interest inthe bias signal. That is, the response of the sensory cell is recordedas a parameter of interest in the bias signal is modulated. Using therecorded results, the coherence between the combined input and theresponse of the sensory cell is then characterized by computing somemeasure such as the cross-correlation coefficient described below. Theresponse of the sensory cell is maximally enhanced when the coherencemeasure is maximized. This maximally enhanced response corresponds tosome value or range of values of the bias signal parameter of interestthat can be determined by, for example, examining a record of the biassignal. Thus, an optimal value or range of values for the parameter ofinterest of the bias signal is determined. The process can be repeatedusing other input signals and parameters of interest thereby determininga bias signal with optimal parameters for input signals with varyingparameters.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the bias signal isoptimized by examining the cross-correlation coefficient, C₁:$C_{1} = \frac{C_{0}}{\sqrt{\overset{\_}{S^{2}(t)}}\sqrt{\overset{\_}{\left( {{R(t)} - \overset{\_}{R(t)}} \right)^{2}}}}$where $C_{0} = \overset{\_}{{S(t)}{R(t)}}$where S(t) is the input signal, R(t) is the output of the sensory neuronor sensory system (e.g., the neural mean firing rate signal or theneural spike train), and the overbar denotes an average over time. S(t)and R(t) can be measured with any appropriate transducers, for example,a needle electrode may be used to measure the output of a neuron.Maximizing C₁ corresponds to maximizing the coherence between the inputsignal S(t) and the neuron's output R(t). The value of C₁ for a giveninput signal will depend upon the parameter of interest of the biassignal. Thus, a bias signal having parameters which will produce thedesired output R(t) may be determined.

The results of the calibration process may be utilized, for example, bymodulating the bias signal in response to an input signal or bydetermining a set of parameter values which, on average, will achieveoptimal enhancement for any input signal. In the first instance,parameter values for the bias signal are, for example, tabulated againstparameters of the input signal. Upon occurrence of an input signal,certain parameters of the input signal are measured, and a bias signalhaving corresponding parameter values is generated by, for example,referencing the tabulated results. In this way, the bias signal ismodulated or optimized for each particular input signal. In the secondinstance, a single set of parameter values which will achieve optimalenhancement for most signals is calculated and used to generate a biassignal which is for use in response to every input.

After the input device has been calibrated and installed, in oneembodiment, an input signal to the neuron is detected. As will beexplained in conjunction with FIG. 4, one embodiment of a system forenhancing the function of a sensory neuron includes signal detectioncapabilities, for example, a transducer and signal processor. Thus, instep 304, input signals to the neuron are detected using the signaldetection capabilities.

Once an input signal is detected in step 304, a bias signal is generatedin step 306. As explained above with respect to the calibration process,the bias signal has either parameters which are modulated depending oncertain parameters of each input signal or a constant, non-modulated,set of parameters which are designed to optimally enhance the functionof a sensory cell in response to most input signals. If a bias signalhaving a non-modulated set of parameters is used, then a somewhatsimpler input system is used. In general, the nature of the bias signalto be used, that is, modulated or non-modulated, depends on the natureof the sensory system to be enhanced. Once the bias signal is generated,it is input to the neuron in step 106.

In the embodiments described above, a bias signal is produced only inresponse to the detection of an input signal to the neuron. In analternative embodiment, after the input device has been calibrated andinstalled, a bias signal is continuously generated and input to theneuron. That is, an input signal does not need to be detected. In amethod according to this embodiment, the bias signal is either modulatedor non-modulated. If the bias signal is modulated, then the continuouslygenerated bias signal is modulated as described above, when an inputsignal is detected. If a non-modulated bias signal is used in thisembodiment, then a simplified input system may be used. As discussedabove, whether a modulated or non-modulated bias signal is used dependsupon, inter alia, the nature of the system to be enhanced.

In another embodiment, a distributed enhancement process is used. Inthis embodiment, the enhancement process described above is modifiedsuch that a bias signal is generated and input to neurons at a pluralityof locations to stimulate an array of sensory cells and thereby providea distributed enhancement effect. In this distributed enhancementsystem, as above, either a continuous or non-continuous, and modulatedor non-modulated bias signals may be used. As one example, if thesensory function of the urinary tract is to be enhanced, a bias signalmay be input to a number of distributed points around the bladder sothat improved fullness sensation is obtained.

One embodiment of an enhancement system 400 for implementing the methodfor enhancing the function of a sensory neuron is shown in FIG. 4.Enhancement system 400 comprises a transducer 402, a signal processor404, an input device 408 and a controller 410. Enhancement system 400operates on electrical signals. An input signal to a sensory cell istypically initiated by contact with the outside world which contact isgenerally not in the form of an electrical signal. An input signal mightbe initiated by, for example, a touch, a movement of a body segment, asound wave or light. One function of transducer 402 is to detect inputsignal initiating contacts and convey the contact to enhancement system400 generally and signal processor 404 specifically. Another function oftransducer 402 is to convert an input signal initiating contact into asignal in a form that is usable by enhancement system 400. The mechanismused for transducer 402 depends on the sensory system targeted. As anexample, if the auditory system is being targeted for enhancement,transducer 402 may take the form of a stimulating electrode or an arrayof stimulating electrodes arranged in the vicinity of the ear. Asanother example, if the proprioceptive system is being targeted forenhancement, transducer 402 is a tendon stimulator, implemented by wayof a piezoelectric transducer, installed or attached via elastic strapsto a tendon or parent muscle associated with the sensory cells whosefunction is to be enhanced. As still another example, if the vibrationor touch-pressure sensation system is being targeted for enhancement,transducer 402 is a surface electrode installed or applied over the skinof the area of the body containing the cells to be stimulated. Such anelectrode is attached using flexible electrode/skin interfaces.

Signal processor 404 produces a bias signal to be input to the sensorysystem targeted for enhancement through input device 408. Signalprocessor 404 is electrically connected to transducer 402, input device408 and controller 410. As discussed above, a bias signal may be eithercontinuous or non-continuous and modulated or non-modulated. The form ofsignal processor 404 depends upon the desired form of the bias signal tobe produced. In one embodiment, where a non-continuous, modulated biassignal is desired, signal processor 404 preferably includes both signaldetection capabilities and look-up table capabilities to store parametervalues for the bias signal. In another embodiment, where a constant,non-modulated bias signal is desired, signal processor 404 does notnecessarily require signal detection capabilities and look-up tablecapabilities. In one embodiment, signal processor 404 is either aspecial function IC or a general micro-processor and is preferablysmall, lightweight and portable. Further, signal processor 404preferably includes signal conditioning and data acquisition abilities.In one embodiment, a PCMCIA chip or card is used as signal processor404.

Signal processor 404 also includes calibration module 406. Calibrationmodule 406 enables adjustment of the bias signal produced by signalprocessor 404. For example, for optimal enhancement, signal processor404 produces a bias signal having predetermined parameters (for example,a predetermined amplitude and frequency) in response to a particularsignal received from transducer 402. If these predetermined parametersof bias signal are not properly adjusted, the bias signal will notoptimally enhance the function of the targeted sensory system.Calibration module 406 enables these predetermined parameters to beadjusted so that an optimal bias signal is produced. Calibration istypically accomplished prior to installation of enhancement system 400and may be accomplished intermittently while enhancement system 400 isinstalled. If calibration is to take place while enhancement system 400is installed, then it is desirable to install signal processor 404 so itis accessible from the outside of the body so that calibration may beaccomplished noninvasively. In an alternative embodiment, signalprocessor 404 is provided with remote access capability enablingcalibration to take place noninvasively whether or not signal processoris accessible from outside of the body.

Input device 408 conveys the bias signal produced by signal processor404 to the targeted sensory system. Depending on what the targetedsensory system is, input device 408 might take a number of differentforms as discussed above. Input devices that are appropriate in certaincircumstances include, nerve cuffs, implanted electrodes, surfaceelectrodes, muscle stimulators, tendon stimulators, and magnetic fieldstimulators. The manner in which input device 408 conveys the biassignal to the targeted sensory system depends on the form of inputdevice 408 and the targeted sensory system. For example, a nerve cuff orimplanted electrode is suitable for use when the urinary tract is thetargeted sensory system and is typically implanted surgically andconveys the bias signal to the sensory components of the system. Amuscle or tendon stimulator, on the other hand, is more suited tomechanically stimulate the proprioceptive system. Such a stimulatormechanically stimulates the proprioceptive system by vibrating a muscleor tendon associated with that system, for example a muscle in thevicinity of a joint. Muscle or tendon stimulators can be appliednoninvasively using, for example, an elastic band. In one embodiment,where the targeted sensory system is the vibration or touch-pressuresensation system, a surface electrode-based system is used as inputdevice 408. Specifically, the glove electrode, the sock electrode, andthe sleeve electrode, sold under the name ELECTRO-MESH™ may be used asinput device 408. The surface electrode system is placed over the bodypart of interest, e.g., the hand or foot. Still further, input device408 may be a magnetic field stimulator used either noninvasively orinvasively. For example, a magnetic field stimulator may be used tostimulate cutaneous sensory neurons by positioning the stimulator on theexterior of the body in the vicinity of the sensory cells to bestimulated using elastic bands. A magnetic field stimulator may be usedinvasively, for example, by surgically implanting the stimulator tostimulate sensory neurons in the area of the bladder.

Controller 410 controls interaction between transducer 402, signalprocessor 404 and input device 408. The implementation for controller410 depends upon, among other things, the form of bias signal desired.That is, where a non-continuous, modulated bias signal is desired,controller 410 may be implemented using a microprocessor. In a simplerembodiment, where a continuous, non-modulated bias signal is desired,controller 410 may be implemented using a switch that simply activatesthe enhancement signal. Alternatively, signal processor 404 may beadequate, so that controller 410 is unnecessary for such an embodiment.By way of example only, controller 410 comprises a microprocessor withsuitable programming, or any digital controller. In one embodiment,controller 410 is implemented with the aforementioned PCMCIA chip orcard.

The nature and amplitude of the bias signal is controlled in accordancewith the type of sensory cell to which the bias signals are applied.Repetitive waveform, pulse or DC signals of the type typically used forother types of injury treatment (e.g. pain suppression, bone healing)are often be avoided in the practice of the present invention, assensory cells can adapt to simple deterministic signals thereby reducingor eliminating over time the effect of such signals on the sensorycells. Instead, in accordance with the invention, non-deterministicnoise signals, such as random, aperiodic noise signals, or recordedrepetitions of noise signals are preferably used, so that the sensorycells do not adapt to the noise signals over the extended period ofnoise signal application that occurs during a physical training regimen.These signals can be continuously generated signals such as thosecreated by known instruments, including a computer random numbergenerator, a noise diode, or thermal noise from a resistor or otherelectrical component. Sampled signals, such as signals stored in astorage device (RAM, ROM, etc.), or periodically recorded noisy signals,may also be employed.

The sensory cell areas containing neurons to be affected by bias signalsmay be found at different depths in the human body, causing differentsignal transmission filtering characteristics to exist between certainof the sensory cells and the signal input device. In a preferredembodiment, the bias signal can be combined with other signal types toovercome this problem. For example, a chirped signal can be formed byoverlaying a noise signal with a swept frequency signal that regularlysweeps through a signal frequency range. This combined signal may betailored to permit the amplification of frequency ranges that arenormally attenuated by transmission in the body. Thus, the signal iscompensated at the skin-surface level for expected attenuations thatwould occur prior to it reaching the target sensory cell. This techniquemight also be used to reduce the effort required to determine anefficacious signal since it might contain all desired frequency ranges.

Another method of the present invention involves enhancing variousneurophysiologic functions by applying an externally produced biassignal to a sensory cell area, as described above, while the subject isperforming a pre-defined physical activity. Neurophysiologic functionsenhanced by this method of the present invention include, for example,limb position sense enhancement, increase release of growth hormones,enhanced peripheral neuroplastic changes, and enhanced central,including cortical, neuroplastic changes.

Most physical training regimens are undertaken to induce, among otherthings, motor learning, i.e. the acquisition of new motor skills or theregaining of motor skills that have been lost due to injury or disease.To achieve the aforementioned sensorimotor performance enhancements,while a subject performs a specified physical activity bias signals areapplied to sensory cells involved in the specific physical activity tolower the threshold at which such cells are triggered by the externalstimuli resulting from the activity. By making the sensory cells moreresponsive, the number of action potentials produced for any givenamount of external stimuli is increased, thereby improving the rateand/or quality of motor learning resulting from the activity.

Coordinated motion of the extremities, for example, requires preciseinterplay between descending volitional signals from the brain, musclecontraction, limb movement, and interaction with the environment. Thistight control is reliant, in part, on sensory feedback of a mechanicalnature from the extremities involved in the motion. Somatosensoryinformation, e.g. tactile information from foot sole and proprioceptiveinformation from knee joint, is clearly important both to normal gaitand to more vigorous activities such as jumping and landing. The methodof the present invention is effective to boost coordinated sensoryinformation from the mechanoreceptors involved in limb position senseduring movement of the extremities. This added information contentduring movement provides a means for improved sensorimotor control. Suchimprovements result in enhanced balance, corrected gait patterns, andprevention of injuries by avoiding, for example, hyperextension ofjoints.

In one embodiment of the invention, a bias signal is provided during atraining regimen to a plurality of structures that participate instability of a joint in a subject, to thereby promote joint sensationand feedback to enhance stability in the subject. For example, at leastone input device, e.g. an electrode, can be placed at or near thearticular space such that sensory cells in or adjacent to the ligaments,the joint capsule and meniscus, are stimulated. The bias signal isprovided at a level below the perception threshold of the sensory cellsassociated with the structures as well as below the cutaneous painthreshold.

In another preferred embodiment, the bias signal can be provided to atleast two structures that maintain joint stability and are on oppositesides of the joint such that the performance of the sensory cellscontained in these structures are enhanced. Preferably, a bias signal isprovided at or adjacent to the joint and at least two differentantagonist muscles on opposite sides of a joint where the action ofthese muscles determines the relative flexion and extension of thejoint.

The bias signal can be provided simultaneously to each of the structuresor it can occur sporadically at each of the structures. Preferably, thebias signal is repeatedly provided to each of the structures, e.g., thebias signal is repeated such that the bias signal is simultaneouslyprovided to each of the structures or the bias signal is repeated suchthat the bias signal is sporadically provided to each of the structuresa plurality of times.

Specific bias signal ranges are applicable to specific types of biassignals used in accordance with this invention. For example, electricalsignals are preferably applied within a current density range of about 1μA/in² to about 1000 μA/in² and a frequency range of about 0 Hz to about10,000 Hz the skin surface of a recipient. Mechanical signals preferablyhave a displacement at the skin surface within the range of about 1 μmto about 10 mm and frequencies within the range of about 0 Hz to about1000 Hz. Mechanical signals can be remotely controlled by providingmechanical actuators on the skin surface that receive remotely generatedwaveform signals from a remote transmitter and convert these signals tomechanical signals. In wireless systems, electrical signals can also betransmitted from a remote transmitter to electrodes that applyelectrical signals to a subject. All bias signals are preferablydesigned to allow for complex constructive and/or destructive patterns.

Naturally-occurring growth hormones, as another example, are released inhumans by the pituitary gland. These hormones are part of the body'ssystem of changing the architecture of muscle and bone in response tochanges in activity. For example, increases in muscle bulk in responseto exercise are partly caused by increased amounts of circulating growthhormone in the body. Recent research has established that afferentsignals from the periphery, specifically those arising from muscle, spurrelease of specific types of growth hormone from the pituitary (McCall,et al., 2000). In accordance with the present invention, sensoryfeedback neurons are made more active by applying bias signals to lowerthe sensory cell threshold during a physical training regimen. Forexample, sensory information from muscle spindles that boost release ofgrowth hormone in response to activity is increased. This is especiallybeneficial to individuals, e.g. strength trainers, working to regainmuscle bulk and bone integrity following trauma or prolonged periods ofinactivity. In some cases, the increase in growth hormone release may besufficient to eliminate the need for growth hormone replacementtherapies and the need for growth hormone supplements.

Interconnections and efficiency of sensorimotor pathways in theperiphery are a manifestation of the acquisition of new motor skills.That is, a key result of training and practice is the creation of thesenew pathways. Indeed, even increases in strength are due as much toneurologic changes as to increases in muscle mass, especially early instrength building regimens. Recent research has shown that afferentactivity spurs the creation of new synapses (“synaptogenesis”), one ofthe underlying neurophysiologic processes of peripheral neuroplasticity(Wong, et al., 2000). Applying bias signals to an input area inaccordance with the method of the present invention increasesinformation-rich sensory traffic from the periphery drives neuroplasticchanges in the periphery. A common perception of strength training isthat it involves only muscularity, and that neurology is not aconsideration. In actuality, neurological factors are central to thedevelopment and maintenance of muscular strength. In the initial stagesof a strength training regimen, muscle mass does not increasesignificantly but strength does as a result of the neuromuscularlearning process. By applying bias signals to an input area inaccordance with the method of the present invention, the time forcompleting this process is significantly reduced by lowering thethreshold for the sensory cells involved during this stage of thestrength training. As a result, information-rich traffic from theperiphery drives neuroplastic changes in the periphery that, among otherthings, increases the rate by which muscle mass formed.

Strength training performed in accordance with the present invention isalso effective in enhancing crossover strength changes in humanappendages such as the arms or the legs. Strength training research hasshown that when only one appendage is subjected to a strength trainingregimen, the strength of the untrained appendage increases to somedegree. Thus, if one appendage is immobilized by a cast or brace, thestrength of the immobilized appendage can be enhanced by using themethod of the present invention to lower the sensory cell thresholds inthe opposite appendage during a strength training regimen for theopposite appendage.

Many athletic training programs are directed to the improvement ofbalance that is required when weight is rapidly transferred from side toside. Balance enhancement training regimens have included prolongedrepetitive side-to-side motion to promote motor learning that results inenhanced balance. Again, in combination with this side-to-side trainingregimen, the present invention involves lowering affected sensory cellthresholds during the training to achieve with greater rapidity enhancedbalance.

Moreover, both normal acquisition of new motor skills, and the processof regaining motor skills following injuries such as stroke, rely on theelimination and creation of new connections throughout the sensory andmotor cortices. Recent research has established that sensory activityfrom the periphery is one of the underlying drivers of these beneficialneuroplastic changes in the brain (McKay, et al., 2002). Applying a biassignal to an input area in accordance with the method of the presentinvention also increases afferent traffic thereby accelerating theimprovement of motor skills.

FIGS. 5A-5C, illustrate one preferred system for applying input signalsin accordance with the method of the present invention as applied duringa physical training regimen. The system comprises a lower extremitygarment 500 that extends from the waist of a user down both legs. A belt502 secures the garment at the waist while foot straps 504 which extendbeneath the user's feet hold the garment snugly against the body duringlower body motion. Foot straps are preferably composed of neoprene orother known elastic material. Garment 500 preferably includes aplurality of belt straps 506 positioned circumferentially around thewaist section of the garment 500. The loose ends of straps 506 fold overbelt 502 and attach to garment 500 via Velcro or other known fasteningmeans to, in effect, form a belt-loop that securely retains belt 502 atwaist level.

Garment 500 is designed for the application of input signals at andbelow the knee. Consequently, the legs of the garment have closures 508that permit input device 510 to be positioned at selected positionsrelative to the knee, calf and/or lower leg muscles while also beingmaintained in place to garment 500. External caps 511 clip through thegarment and onto input device 510, so as to securely hold input device510 in place. Signal input devices 510, therefore, can be placed atvirtually any position on the garment as necessary for variousapplications and to accommodate the anatomy of the subject. To fitgarment 500 to a user, input devices 510 are first placed on the skin ofa user relative to specific muscles, joints, etc. Garment 500 is thencarefully donned over input devices 510 and external caps 511 areclipped through garment 500 to hold input devices 510 in place. Garment500 is preferably formed of neoprene or any known stretchable materialthat enables the garment to closely conform to the subject and securelyhold the input devices 510 securely against the subject's skin toprevent displacement of the input devices 510 during the prolongedmotion involved in an exercise regimen.

Cables 512 electrically connect the input devices 510 to a signalgenerator 514. Signal generator 514 provides power to input device 510on the inner surface of the garment so that changes in the position ofthe electrodes can be adjusted within the area of input devices 510.Cables 512 are preferably secured to garment 500 such that there are noloose cables to impede body movement. In a preferred embodiment, cables512 extending from signal generator 514 are secured within side pockets516 of garment 500. Cables 512 extend through pockets 516 into a conduit520 that extends downward along the leg portions of garment 500. Conduit520 branches into multiple conduits at knee level, so as to accommodateinput devices 510 positioned at various positions on and about the lowerleg. Input devices 510 can be attached at any position along the lengthof cables 512. A cable guide 522 made of plastic or similar materialsurround conduit 520 so as to maintain the opening of conduit 520 intopocket 516. The conduit opening maintained by cable guide 522 allowscable 512 to be fed into and out of the length of conduit 520 withconsiderable ease.

Cable 512 is preferably of sufficient length to permit controller 514 toslide from the side of belt 502 to the back of the belt 502. Thus,signal generator 514 can be repositioned at various positions along belt502, so as not to restrict movement required by specific exercises.Signal generator 514 can also be worn at other locations or hand held.Generally, the placement of signal generator 514 is determined basedupon location of the joint to be stabilized, the comfort of the subjectand/or the ease of motion by the subject. To eliminate cables 512,signal generator 514 may include one or more wireless transmittersoperative to transmit signals to signal generator 514 and/or inputdevices 510.

Signal generator 514, as shown in FIG. 6, includes a signal processor404, a controller 410, control dials 606, a display 608, a test button610, and an infrared port 612. Display 608 shows graphic informationthat is of interest to the user or clinician such as current stimulationprogram, remaining battery life, stimulation levels, active channels,errors etc. Infrared port 612 (or wireless or cabled, etc.) provides alink to a computer station that permits the downloading of customstimulation patterns and waveforms. Test button 610 permits theconfirmation of appropriate controller function. Controls dials 606 areoperative to vary the amplitude of the noise signals provided to thesignal input devices 510 so as to maintain the signals below thethreshold level of the sensory cells targeted, as well as below thesubcutaneous threshold level. The electrical current density at eachsignal input device 510 is determined by the current amplitude and thesize of the electrode. The current density must be maintained within anacceptable range. In the case of electrical stimulation, channels may beelectrically isolated from one another or may share a common ground.

Input devices 510 can apply, through the skin, input signals to thestructure associated with joint orientation. As earlier noted, the inputdevices 510 in the garment can be surface electrodes, musclestimulators, tendon stimulators, and magnetic field stimulators,vibratory stimulators, e.g. small electromagnetic rotary motors or flatmotors (i.e. pancake motors), piezoelectric actuators, ferrofluidmagnetic actuators, or electrorheologic actuators, or other known signalinput device The signal input devices are appropriately sized andarranged to localize stimulation to a desired structure. For example,knee electrodes and actuators are sized as to not impede or restrictmotion and to limit (target) the stimulation to the sensory neurons ofinterest. Signal generator 514 can be programmed to vary the intensityand timing of the signals. For example, when more than one input device510 is used, the location and polarity of the signals can be varied.Similarly, the stimulation can simultaneously occur at each of inputdevices 510, or the stimulation can occur sporadically between each ofinput devices 510. The power and frequency of stimulation can also becontrolled. The signal is at a level below the perception threshold ofsensory cells associated with the various structures that play a role inthe joint's stability. Thus, the signal is at a level below thatrequired to trigger the sensory cells in those structures.

The level of the signal supplied by signal generator 514 may also beenough to stimulate other cells that are located in structures notdirectly involved in joint stability. For example, sensory cells withinthe skin may perceive a signal supplied through an input device 510placed upon the skin, but the level is still below the thresholdrequired to stimulate the sensory cells of the structure, e.g., such asthe hamstring below the skin, which is associated with the stability ofthe knee joint. Such low level signals are described in Collins et al.,U.S. Pat. No. 5,782,873.

In another preferred embodiment, provided is a structure 700 for placingsignal input devices 510 in contact with the subject's skin, as shown inFIG. 7. A plurality of arms 704 extend from central hubs 708 which, whenstructure 700 is properly worn, are positioned on opposite sides of thejoint of interest. The portion of arms 704 immediately adjacent to thecentral hubs 708 is composed of an expandable material, e.g. rubber.Arms 704 are preferably biased inwards inward to a degree, such as tosecurely engage the leg when structure 700 is positioned on theextremity. Arms 704 also include a plurality of input devices 510positioned such that when structure 700 is properly positioned on theextremity, input devices 510 are positioned on those areas of the legwhere the bias signal is to be applied in accordance with the method ofthe present invention.

At least one of the arms 704 includes a cable outlet 706 that iselectrically wired to each of input devices 510. Outlet 706 accommodateselectrical connector 702 of cable 512 such that when the other end ofcable 512 is connected to signal generator 514, an electrical connectionis established between signal generator 514 and input devices 510. Cable512 is preferably composed of a stretchable and strain resistantmaterial to reduce the likelihood of cable 512 becoming detached fromoutlet 706 or signal generator 514 during use.

In another aspect of the invention, provided is a joint coveringstructure 800, as shown in FIGS. 8A-8B on a knee joint, having aplurality of input devices 510, and preferably a signal generator 514,incorporated into or positioned thereon. Input devices 510 arepositioned so as to engage the appropriate combination of muscles andjoints to which the bias signal is to be applied in accordance with themethod of the present invention. Joint structure 800 is preferablydesigned to wrap around the joint and fasten upon itself by Velcro orother known fastening means. Alternatively, joint structure 800 can beconfigured to slide onto and off of the joint. Joint structure 800 ispreferably made of fabric, but can also be made of plastic, rubber, orother material, as long as at least a portion of the structure is madeof a flexible material which allows the input devices 510 to remain inplace during the flexing and extending of the joint. As illustrated, theridged portion 802 of structure 800 is comprised of thicker materialcapable of assistively bracing the joint. A thinner portion 804 ofstructure 800 is positioned over the joint so as to allow bending of thejoint without displacing the input devices 510.

In another aspect of the invention, provided is an electrode applicator900, as shown in FIG. 9, which provides a means to customize theposition of, or distance between, signal input devices 510 (e.g. skinsurface electrodes) for a subject receiving treatment in accordance withthe method of present invention. Areas of flexible, electricallyconductive layer 902, such as conductive rubber, provide an electricallyconductive means between wires 908 and signal input devices 510.Covering and surrounding the conductive layer 902 on the outer surfaceof the structure is a nonconductive material 904. These two layers ofconductive 902 and non-conductive materials 904 are permanently affixedto one another. Also covering conductive layer 902 on its inner, or skinsurface, side is a non-conductive film 906 which is removably affixed tothe conductive layer 902. By removing non-conductive film 906, the innersurface of conductive layer 902 is exposed, allowing a signal inputdevice 510 to be affixed to the conductive layer 902. Non-conductivefilm 906 is scored or otherwise segmented in a pattern which allows forportions of the non-conductive film 906, rather than the entire film, tobe removed. In this way, the majority of the conductive layer 902remains covered by the non-conductive film 906 during use. Signal inputdevices 510 are composed of a thin, electrically conductive material,such as hydrogel, that provides the electrical interface between theconductive layer 902 and the subject's skin.

The apparatus used for performing the method of the present invention isunique relative to known units used for improving sensorimotorperformance (e.g. motor learning) or the treatment of injuries andrehabilitation from the effect of an injury. In such known units,electrodes are mounted on braces or wraps and include free, untetheredelectrical conductors, all of which will inhibit the motion required forthe performance of an effective physical training regimen.

While the above illustrated embodiments are directed to pants, a jointstabilizer, and a brace, the term wearable device as used herein, refersto any structure capable of holding input devices 510 in place at adesired location.

The embodiments described herein have been shown as a lower bodywearable device for illustrative purposes only. Similar embodimentscapable of holding signal input devices in place that are designed tothe upper body including the arms and torso of an individual, are withinthe spirit and scope of present invention. The upper body wearabledevice may be combined with the lower body wearable device to permitinput devices to be positioned and operated simultaneously along boththe upper and lower body in accordance with the method of the invention.

Referring now to FIGS. 10A and 10B, a noninvasive, surfaceneuro-stimulation system 2000 is illustrated. The neuro-stimulationsystem 2000 may be applied to a patient non-sterilely and in anin-patient/out-patient setting. As shown, the neuro-stimulation system2000 employs a stimulator 2100 and a controller 2200, which may bedetachably coupled to each other. The stimulator 2100 is placed intocontact with a body part of a subject, or patient, to deliver electricalcurrent and/or mechanical vibration. The controller 2200 is operated tocontrol the delivery of the electrical current and/or mechanicalvibration through the stimulator 2100 according to the neuro-stimulationtherapies described herein.

Advantageously, embodiments, such as the neuro-stimulation system 2000,enable the simultaneous use of electrical current and mechanicalvibration to provide neuro-stimulation. In particular, the applicationof both electrical and mechanical stimulation provides broader targetingof mechanoreceptors. Electrical stimulation and mechanical stimulationreach different mechanoreceptors. For example, electrical stimulationmay reach structures that lie deeper below a body part surface, whilemechanical stimulation may reach structures that lie closer to thesurface. A further unexpected benefit of applying both types ofstimulation over the exclusive application of either electricalstimulation or mechanical stimulation is that all receptors areconsistently activated during stimulation, and the body does not becomeconfused by the activation of some receptors over other receptors in aparticular sensory cell area.

Scientists and clinicians working in the field of stroke rehabilitationhave established the critical link between mechanical sensoryinformation (touch, pressure, and joint angle sense) produced duringrehabilitation activities and the restoration of brain function. Assuch, in a preferred application, the neuro-stimulation system 2000 maybe applied to rehabilitate stroke patients. Demonstrating the utility ofsuch an application, a study in stroke rehabilitation was performed inan established animal model (developed by Dr. Jeffrey Kleim at theUniversity of Florida).

The animal model used in the study reliably reproduces strokes in themotor cortex, so that post-stroke recovery of function may be quantifiedduring a rehabilitation period. This model generally provides anexcellent test-bed for comparing putative therapeutic interventions,which may include techniques, devices, or drugs. In this animal model,during a pre-stroke period which typically spans about 10 days, rats aretrained to perform a task and they are graded according to their abilityto perform the task. For example, the task may require the rats to reacharound an obstacle to obtain food, and the rats are graded according totheir proficiency, or accuracy, in reaching for food. At the end of thespecified pre-stroke period, the rats are given a stroke in the motorcortex, and their task proficiency is measured over a period of severaldays after the stroke. According to clinicians, this animal modelproduces behaviors that are similar to those that the clinicianstypically observe in stroke patients undergoing rehabilitation.

In this study, sensory enhancement stimulation was employed duringrehabilitation to demonstrate that sensory enhancement stimulationimproves neuroplasticity, or the formation of lasting functional changesin the brain. Using sixty animals in six treatment groups (includingcontrols), the study tested whether sensory stimulation used inconjunction with physical rehabilitation would improve the reacquisitionof skill versus rehabilitation without such stimulation. Stimulationbelow the sensory or motor threshold was delivered during rehabilitationsessions through implanted electrodes. Furthermore, three differentstimulation amplitudes (RMS) were tested.

The charts of FIGS. 11 and 12 present the resulting data for the sixstudy groups in the study: a control group (no stroke), a groupreceiving no rehabilitation, a group receiving rehabilitation withoutstimulation, and three groups S1, S2, S3 receiving rehabilitation withthree different amplitudes of stimulation, respectively. The chartsindicate that the application of sensory enhancement stimulation in thestudy significantly accelerated and improved the endpoint in thereacquisition of skill when compared to rehabilitation withoutstimulation.

Accordingly, the neuro-stimulation system 2000 provides a tool fordelivering sensory enhancement stimulation for improved strokerehabilitation. For example, FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrate theapplication of the neuro-stimulation system 2000 to two respectivelocation on a subject's arm for use during rehabilitative therapy. Theneuro-stimulation system 2000 may be fitted with an attachment element2500, such as the arm band also shown in FIG. 10B, that enables theneuro-stimulation system 2000 to be secured to the subject's arm asillustrated in FIG. 13. Of course, the neuro-stimulation system 2000 mayemploy other attachment elements and may be applied to other parts ofthe subject's body which may require rehabilitation.

FIGS. 14A and 14B show an embodiment of a stimulator 2100. Thestimulator 2100 has one or more contact areas 2102A and 2102B which areplaced into contact with selected sites on the subject's body, andelectrical and/or mechanical stimulation is delivered to the selectedsites. As illustrated in FIG. 14A, the stimulator 2100 may be formedfrom laminated layers 2104, such as bonded layers of polycarbonate orthe like, which can conform to a body part and enable sufficient contactwith the selected stimulation sites.

In the particular embodiment shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, the stimulator2100 has a generally elongate shape with two contact areas 2102A and2102B at opposing ends. As illustrated in detail in FIG. 14B, thecontact area 2102A is positioned at the end of an arm 2104A that isapproximately 7.5 inches long, while the contact area 2104B ispositioned at the end of an arm 2104B that angles from the arm 2104A byapproximately 15 degrees and is approximately 5.5 inches long. Moreover,the contact areas 2102A and 2102B are substantially circular withdiameters of approximately 1.5 inches. As such, the shape shown in FIG.14B accommodates application of the stimulator 2100 to a subject's armas shown in FIG. 13. In general, however, a stimulator 2100 in otherembodiments may have a shape that best accommodates its application to aparticular body part, and thus the shape is not limited to the examplesdescribed herein.

Preferably, the stimulator 2100 employs at least one electrode device2110 and at least one vibration element 2120 for delivering electricaland mechanical stimulation, respectively. As such, in the embodiment ofFIGS. 14A and 14B, each of the contact areas 2102A and 2102B haselectrode pair 2110 and a vibration element 2120. The electrode device2110 refers to a source electrode and return electrode for electricalstimulation, although the source electrode and return electrode may be apart of an integral structure, or, alternatively, parts of separatelyapplicable structures.

The electrodes 2110 may be screen-printed carbon and may be electricallyconnected to the stimulation site via a medical grade conductivehydrogel, such as a polyarylacetylene (PAA) hydrogel or similar materialwith biocompatibility data for skin contact. Preferably, electricalsignals from the electrodes 2110 are only conducted through the contactareas 2102A and 2102B in contact with the stimulation areas. In theembodiment of FIGS. 14A and 14B, the electrodes at each contact area2102A and 2102B may have a diameter of approximately 1.25 inches.

Additionally, adhesive may be employed on portions of the stimulator2100 to secure the stimulator 2100 to the subject's body and positionthe contact areas 2102 at the selected stimulation sites. For example, athin adhesive ring surrounding the gel at the contact areas 2102 may beemployed to aid in securing the contact areas 2102 to the stimulationsites. A medical grade double sided adhesive with biocompatibility datafor skin contact may be employed. In general, the adhesive properties ofthe stimulator 2100 as well as the supporting connection to thecontroller 2200 is adequate to support the stimulator 2100.Advantageously, the neuro-stimulation system 2000 also stays attached tothe patient during therapy. In some cases, medical tape may be employedto aid in support. However, it is noted that the use of adhesiverequired to support the controller 2200 entirely may be too aggressiveespecially for the fragile skin of elderly patients. Thus, the use of anattachment element 2500, such as an arm band, may be preferred. Arelease liner (not shown) may be employed on the contact side of thestimulator 2100 to cover the hydrogel and adhesive and to ensure cleancontact surfaces before application of the stimulator 2100 to thesubject.

The vibration elements 2120 may be piezoelectric elements and may bemechanically coupled to the subject via the gel and surroundingadhesive. In the embodiment of FIGS. 14A and 14B, the vibration elements2120 at each contact area 2102A and 2102B may have a diameter ofapproximately 1.25 inches and a maximum thickness of approximately 0.03inches. The vibration elements 2120 may include two piezoelectricelements mounted side-by-side, and may be formed from lead zirconiumtitanate (PZT) mounted on a nickel plate.

Operation of the electrodes 2110 and the vibration elements 2120 isachieved through a circuit 2130. As shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, a flexcircuit 2130 is routed throughout the stimulator 2100 to connect theelectrodes 2110 and the vibration elements 2120 to the controller 2200.For example, the flex circuit 2130 may employ low resistance silver (Ag)or silver/silver chloride (Ag/AgCl).

Additionally, the stimulator 2100 may employ an internalelectrically-erasable read-write memory device 2140, such as an EEPROM,which is connected to the flex circuit 2130. The flex circuit 2130provides power, ground, and signals to the memory device 2140. Thememory device 2140 records and stores data on the operation of thestimulator 2100. As described further below, the controller 2200 maywrite data to the memory device 2140 when the stimulator 2100 is coupledto the controller 2200.

In some cases, to ensure the proper functioning of each stimulator 2100,the stimulator 2100 may have a specified shelf life, e.g. one year. Inaddition, the stimulator 2100 may be limited to a single use, afterwhich it must be discarded. Furthermore, to prevent overuse during asingle application, each stimulator 2100 may have a specified stimulatorlife, e.g. three hours, which sets the maximum amount of time thestimulator 2100 may be used during the single use. In one embodiment,the controller 2200 may be employed to prevent repeated use of thestimulator 2100 and to track the stimulator's total amount of useagainst the specified stimulator life. In particular, as describedfurther below, the controller 2200 may store usage data regarding theuse of a stimulator in the memory device 2140.

While the stimulator 2100 may be limited to a single use and a maximumusage time on the order of a few hours, the controller 2200 may have asignificantly longer life. For example, the design life for thecontroller 2200 may be approximately four years, with annual batteryreplacement. As such, the controller 2200 is generally reusable. On theother hand, due to the limits on its use, a single stimulator 2100 isdisposable and not reusable. Therefore, a single controller 2200 istypically used with a plurality of stimulators 2100.

The stimulator 2100 has a connector 2150 that enables the stimulator2100 to be detachably coupled to the controller 2200. Electrical signalsmay be sent and/or received via the connector 2150. As such, theconnector 2150 connects the flex circuit 2130 to the controller 2200. Inthe embodiment of FIGS. 14A and 14B, the connector 2150 may be an n-pinconnector, e.g. 9-pin connector, approximately 1 inch long.

As shown in FIG. 15B, the controller 2200 has a connection port 2250which correspondingly receives, or engages, the connector 2150 of thestimulator 2100. For example, the connection port 22 may receive thenine pins for the connector 2150 shown in FIG. 15B. Through thisconnection with the stimulator 2100, the controller 2200 may control thedelivery of electrical and/or mechanical stimulation by the stimulator2100.

FIGS. 15A and 15B show that the controller 2200 has a housing 2202 whichis defined by the assembly of a front housing section 2204 and a backhousing section 2206. The housing sections 2204 and 2206 may be moldedfrom a material such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or thelike. In the embodiment of FIGS. 15A and 15B, the controller 2200 mayhave overall dimensions of approximately 3.5″×2.5″×1.25″ and may have anoverall weight of approximately 100 g. As such, the controller 2200 issufficiently lightweight and compact for easy application, asparticularly shown in FIG. 13.

FIG. 15A illustrates a user interface 2210 positioned on a side of thefront housing section 2204. The user interface 2210 may include agraphic display 2212 for presenting operational information to a userand input controls, such as a light-touch membrane keypad 2214, forreceiving operational instructions from a user.

In particular, the graphic display 2212 may provide the user withinformation regarding the status of the stimulator life, battery life,stimulation time, and the electrical and stimulation output levels. Forexample, in the embodiment of FIGS. 15A and 15B, the graphic display2212 may be a monochrome graphic display with 128 (W)×64 (H) pixels,which provide yellow, blue, green, or similarly colored graphic elementson a black background. As such, the graphic display 2212 may employ anorganic light emitting diode (OLED). The overall dimensions of thegraphic display may be approximately 1.9″×1.3″.

Meanwhile, as shown in FIG. 15A, the keypad 2214 may have a power key2215 to allow the user to turn the controller on and off. In addition,the keypad 2214 may have adjustment keys 2216 and 2217 to adjust thestimulation levels up and down, respectively. As discussed furtherbelow, the keys 2215, 2216, and 2217 may be employed in a variety ofsequences or combinations to provide input for the operation of thecontroller 2100. The keypad 2214 may be a membrane keypad formed, forexample, from polycarbonate or the like. In the embodiment of FIGS. 15Aand 15B, the overall dimensions of the keypad may be approximately1.5″×0.75″.

FIG. 15B also shows that a clip 2208, or other similar structure, may bepositioned on a side of the back housing section 2206 to work with anattachment element 2500 for securing the controller 2200 to the subject.For example, the clip 2208 may be employed to attach the controller 2200to the arm band 2500 described previously with reference to FIG. 10B.

The diagram of FIG. 16 illustrates electrical components and connectionsthat may be employed for the neuro-stimulation system 2000. It isunderstood, however, that FIG. 16 merely presents an example embodiment,and in no way limits the electrical components and connections that maybe employed in other embodiments.

As shown in FIG. 16, the controller 2200 houses a power supply 2220 andan embedded processor 2230, which are connected to each other. Theprocessor 2230 is also connected to the graphic display 2212 and thekeypad 2214. In the embodiment of FIG. 16, the flying leads of powersupply 2220 may be directly soldered for connection to the processor2230. The graphic display may be connected via 0.5 mm SMT ZIF (18conductor), and the keypad 2214 may be connected via 1 mm SMT ZIF (4conductor).

The power supply 2220 generates the required voltage and current foroperating the processor 2230 as well as the electrodes 2110, thevibration elements 2120, and the graphic display 2212. For example, thepower supply may be a lightweight rechargeable lithium ion battery pack.However, in other embodiments, the neuro-stimulation system 2000 mayemploy disposable non-rechargeable batteries or other types of powersources. Generally, a lightweight portable power supply 2220 ispreferred over sources such as an electrical outlet to make thecontroller 2200 also lightweight and portable. In the embodiment of FIG.16, the battery 2220 may have a nominal voltage of 3.6 VDC. With aminimum capacity of approximately 1,600 mAh, the battery 2220 mayprovide approximately 3 hours of run time between charges. With a chargevoltage of 4.2 VDC, the charge time for the rechargeable battery 2220may be approximately 4 hours. As known, the battery 2220 may include aninternal power control module to minimize over charge/discharge. Forrepeated use of the rechargeable battery 2220, the battery 2220 ischargeable to preferably at least 75% of original capacity after 500cycles.

The display, keypad, mechanical stimulation, and electrical stimulationare controlled by the processor 2230. The processor 2230 may, forexample, be a central printed circuit board (PCB) formed from G-10 whichserves as the central point of connectivity and contains all thehardware and software required to generate and control the stimulationapplied through the stimulator 2100. In the embodiment of FIG. 16, theprocessor 2230 includes: a field-effect transistor switch (FET SW) 2231;a microcontroller (μC) 2232 with non-volatile random access memory(nov-RAM) 2233; a DC supply 2234; DC-to-DC converters 2235 and 2236; amechanical stimulation drive 2237; an electrical stimulation drive 2238;and a sound device 2239.

In the embodiment of FIG. 16, the keypad 2214 may employ four circuitscorresponding with the power key 2215, up and down adjustment keys 2216and 2217, as well as ground. The keypad 2214 may employ TTL levelsignals, as well as single pole single throw (SPST) switches which arenormally open.

When the power key 2215 on the keypad 2214 is pressed, the FET switch2231 is correspondingly turned on and power from the power supply 2220is provided via the FET switch 2231 to the rest of the controller 2200.Once the microcontroller 2232 receives power and is activated, it holdsthe FET switch 2231 on. When the microcontroller 2232 determines a shutdown, it turns the FET switch 2231 off. In the embodiment of FIG. 16,the FET switch 2231 may employ signal level controls and may have arating of 4.2 V at 500 mA (min).

The microcontroller 2232 with the non-volatile memory 2233 hosts thefirmware and provides overall control for the neuro-stimulation system2000. The microcontroller 2232 may be a single chip microcontroller,which has a speed that is sufficient to support the input/output and therandom signal generation described herein. The features of themicrocontroller 2232 may include: integrated power on reset circuitry,integrated clock oscillator, integrated RAM and program memory, internalRTC with external xtl, integrated 12-bit analog-to-digital converter,two integrated 12-bit digital-to-analog converters, integrated voltagereference, and sufficient digital signal processing (DSP) capability tosupport white noise generation and filtering (10 Hz-100 Hz).

In addition, the microcontroller 2132 has sufficient input/output (I/O)capacity to support: input from a battery voltage monitor, input frompower key 2115, input from up and down adjustment keys 2116 and 2117,input from the stimulator 2100 for StimEnable and SatDetect signalsdescribed herein, input and output from the non-volatile RAM 2233, inputand output from the EEPROM 2140 of the stimulator 2100, input and outputfrom the graphic display 2112, ISP input, output for the sound device2239, output for the mechanical stimulation drive 2237, and output forthe electrical stimulation drive 2238.

In the embodiment of FIG. 16, the microcontroller 2232 may have anoutput current of approximately 100 mA (min) and may have a regulationof +/−1% ripple. Moreover, the programming of the microprocessor 2232may employ ISP. Meanwhile, non-volatile RAM 2233 provides a minimum offour kilobytes with a memory address of 0xA0 and a serial memoryinterface.

The processor 2230 includes the DC supply 2234, which receives inputvoltage (V_(bat)) from the power supply 2220 and produces regulated andfiltered voltage for the control circuitry. In the embodiment of FIG.16, the DC supply 2234 receives a nominal input battery voltage from thepower supply 2220 of approximately 3.6 VDC, and may produce an outputvoltage of approximately 3.0 VDC and output current of 100 mA (min).Furthermore, the DC supply 2234 may have a regulation of +/−1% ripple.

The processor 2230 may also employ a sound device 2139, such as a signallevel audio transducer, that sounds or beeps when the keypad is pressedor during an alert or alarm condition. In the embodiment of FIG. 16, thesound device 2135 may have an audio output level of at least 60 dB at 30cm.

In addition, the processor 2230 also includes the DC-to-DC converter2235, which receives input voltage from the power supply 2220 andgenerates the higher voltage rails required to drive the electrical andmechanical stimulation circuitry, described further below. In theembodiment of FIG. 16, the DC-to-DC converter 2235 may receive an inputvoltage (V_(bat)) of approximately 3 VDC and produce an output voltageof approximately 30 VDC and an output current of approximately 30 mA(typ) for the delivery of electrical and mechanical stimulation.

Furthermore, the processor 2230 also includes the DC-to-DC converter2236, which receives input voltage from the power supply 2220 andgenerates the voltage for operation of the graphic display 2112. In theembodiment of FIG. 16, the DC-to-DC converter 2236 may receive an inputvoltage (V_(bat)) of approximately 3 VDC and produce an output voltageof approximately 12 VDC and an output current of approximately of +/−500mA (typ) for the graphic display 2112. The data transfer to the graphicdisplay 2112 may be serial. The logic voltage may be approximately 2.4VDC to 3.5 VDC and the supply voltage may be approximately 12 VDC (typ).

Receiving the voltage from the DC-to-DC converter 2235, the mechanicalstimulation drive 2237 and the electrical stimulation drive 2238 providethe output to drive the vibration elements 2120 and the electrodes 2110of the stimulator 2100. In particular, the microcontroller 2232generates, sets amplitude, filters, and delivers the aperiodic signalthat drives the vibration elements 2120 and the electrodes 2110.

In the embodiment of FIG. 16, an H-Bridge amplifier configuration isused to push and pull the outputs. The mechanical stimulation drive 2237may employ voltage control. The digital-to-analog conversion may be 10bit (min), or equivalent resolution. The voltage-to-voltage conversionmay be: 1.3 V in=+30 V out; 650 mV in=0 V out; 0 V in=−30 V out; 0 to1.3 V. With an input voltage of 0 to 1.3 V, the output voltage may be:−30 V to +30 V (max, +/−3 sigma); −20 V to +20 V (+/−2 sigma); −10V to+10V (typ, +/−1 sigma). The output current may be −30 mA to +30 mA(max). The waveform produced by the mechanical stimulation drive 2237 isaperiodic with a Gaussian distribution and the frequency spectrum may be10 Hz (or lower) to 100 Hz. Filtering may have a pass band ripple ofless than 0.5 dB and equivalent roll off above 100 Hz to a 6-poleButterworth. Output may also need additional low pass filtering due to a1 ms pulse width. Thus, a low pass (LP) filter 2240 provides additionalfiltering to “smooth out” the 1 ms pulse width transitions in thevibration drive. The LP filter 2240 may employ a 3 Pole Chebychev, witha pass band of 10 Hz to 125 Hz.

In the embodiment of FIG. 16, the electrical stimulation drive 2238 mayemploy current control. The digital-to-analog conversion may be 10 bit(min), or equivalent resolution. The voltage-to-current conversion maybe: 1.3 V in=+150 μA out; 650 mV in=0 μA out; 0 V in=−150 μA out. Withan input voltage of 0 to 1.3 V, the output current may be: −150 μA to+150 μA (max, +/−3 sigma); −100 μA to +100 μA (+/−2 sigma); −50 μA to+50 μA (typ, +/−1 sigma). The output voltage may be −30 V to +30 V(max). The waveform produced by the electrical stimulation drive 2238 isaperiodic having a Gaussian distribution with a hold output of 1ms/level, while the spectrum is defined by the 1 ms hold time (noadditional filtering is required). The hardware current limit is +/−150μA. A SatDetect signal 2242 is issued if the target current cannot beachieved (skin Z is too high) or if the electrodes are not connected.

The graphs in FIGS. 20A-C represent aperiodic outputs which may beproduced by the mechanical stimulation drive 2237 and the electricalstimulation drive 2238. FIGS. 20A and 20B demonstrate that the spectralcontent of the mechanical stimulation and the electrical stimulation,respectively, is within a defined narrow band, while FIG. 20C shows thatoutput is random over time. Advantageously, both the randomness and thefrequency content enable targeting of the appropriate receptors. Inother words, different receptors may respond to different stimulationfrequencies, so the aperiodic stimulation helps to promote a responsefrom receptors which may have such varying response characteristics. Asa further advantage, by randomly and unpredictably applying a range offrequencies, aperiodic stimulation avoids the effect of adaptation wherethe response to specific frequencies diminishes, or is wiped out, withrepeated and predictable exposure to the same specific frequencies. Asshown in FIG. 20C, the noise is normally distributed about a mean, sothe signal may be electrically expressed as a Gaussian distribution. Theaperiodic sequence preferably does not repeat itself within 20 seconds.

In the embodiment of FIG. 16, the stimulation output from themicrocontroller 2231 is a current, with maximum value of 0.5 mA. Whenconverted to a voltage signal across a 2.61 kΩ sense resistor the inputto both the mechanical stimulation drive 2237 and the electricalstimulation drive 2238 is biased to 0.65 VDC. Therefore, a setting of100% represents waveforms that span the entire range, i.e. 0 VDC to 1.3VDC. A 50% setting in either electrical or mechanical stimulation spansan output range of 0.325 VDC to 0.975 VDC.

The output from the mechanical stimulation drive 2237 and/or theelectrical stimulation drive 2238 of the processor 2230 is transmittedto the stimulator 2100 via the detachable coupling of the connectionport 2250 and the connector 2150. As described previously, this couplingmay employ a 9-pin connection. The mechanical stimulation drive 2237drives the vibration elements 2120 of the stimulator 2100, while theelectrical stimulation drive 2238 drives the electrodes 2110 of thestimulator 2100.

With further reference to the embodiment of FIG. 16, the electrodes 2110may employ dual carbon electrodes with a resistance of 500 ohms (max)(measured from each electrode surface to contact with the flex circuit).The vibration elements 2120 may employ two parallel piezo elements, withpiezoelectric bimorph technology. The input power to the vibrationelements 2120 may be approximately 150 mW (max), and the oscillatingrange of the vibration elements 2120 may be approximately DC to 20 kHz.

In the embodiment of FIG. 16, the stimulator 2100 employs an EEPROM2140. The EEPROM 2140 may have a size of 1 K (128×8) (min) with a memoryaddress of 0xA1. The power supply to the EEPROM 2140 may beapproximately 1.8 to 5.5 VDC. The package for the EEPROM 2140 may be 8pin, SOIC SMT. For chip select, the A0 address bit must be decoded.

When the stimulator 2100 is connected to the controller 2200, the EEPROM2140 may be serially connected to the processor 2130, so that theprocessor 2230 may read and write to the EEPROM 2140. In particular, asdescribed previously, the controller 2200 may employ the EEPROM 2140 totrack usage data, such as the total amount of use against a specifiedstimulator life for the stimulator 2100.

Additionally, as further illustrated by FIG. 16, the flex circuit 2130provides a way for the controller 2200 to detect the presence of thestimulator 2100 by shorting pin 3 (V_(bat)) to pin 7. As such, when thestimulator 2100 is attached to the controller 2200, the StimEnable line2241 goes high, informing the microcontroller 2232 to switch on theDC-to-DC converter 2235 (30 V step up) to power the mechanicalstimulation drive 2237 and electrical stimulation drive 2238.

FIG. 17 illustrates a controller state diagram and operation of theexample embodiment shown in FIG. 16. As such, the state diagram of FIG.17 merely presents a non-limiting example of operation of theneuro-stimulator 2000.

Operation of the controller 2200 is governed by the embedded software ofprocessor 2230. In step 6002, the power key 2215 is operated, orpressed, to power up the controller 2200. As described previously, theprocessor 2230 is able to detect whether a stimulator 2100 is coupled tothe controller 2200. If the controller 2200 is not connected to astimulator 2100, the graphic display 2112 displays the life of battery2220 in step 6004 and the controller 2200 shuts down automatically after2 minutes, as described further below. Otherwise, when the controller2200 powers up, the graphic display (OLED) 2112 displays the life ofbattery 2220 and life of the stimulator 2100.

In step 6006, the power key 2115 is pressed again to allow theelectrical stimulation with the stimulator 2100 to be set, in step 6008.In step 6008A, the up adjustment key 2116 may be pressed to increase theelectrical stimulation up to any value below a predetermined maximum,e.g. 100%. For example, pressing the up adjustment key 2116 onceincreases the electrical stimulation by 5% of its entire range. On theother hand, in step 6008B, the down adjustment key 2117 may be pressedto decrease the electrical stimulation down to any value above apredetermined minimum, e.g. 0%. For example, pressing the downadjustment key 2117 once decreases the electrical stimulation by 5% ofits entire range. In response to step 6008, the processor 2230, with theelectrical stimulation drive 2238, drives the electrodes 2110 of thestimulator 2100 with a current that corresponds with the given setting.When the electrical stimulation level is changed, with the up and downadjustment keys 2116 and 2117 and even shutdown with the power key 2115,the change is preferably executed in a ramped manner. A sudden changemay be perceived as uncomfortable to the patient. As such, a slew rateof approximately 0.2 μA/ms (or 1 μA every 5 ms) may be employed.

In step 6010, the power key 2115 is pressed again to allow themechanical stimulation with the stimulator 2100 to be set, in step 6012.In step 6012A, the up adjustment key 2116 may be pressed to increase themechanical stimulation up to any value below a predetermined maximum,e.g. 100%. For example, pressing the adjustment key 2116 once increasesthe mechanical stimulation by 5% of its entire range. In step 6012B, thedown adjustment key 2117 may be pressed to decrease the mechanicalstimulation down to any value above a predetermined minimum, e.g. 0%.For example, pressing the adjustment key 2117 once decreases themechanical stimulation by 5% of its entire range. In response to step6012, the processor 2230, with the mechanical stimulation drive 2237,drives the vibration elements 2120 of the stimulator 2100 with a voltagethat corresponds with the given setting.

In step 6014, the power key 2115 is pressed again to lock thestimulation levels set in steps 6008 and 6012. Electrical and/ormechanical stimulation continues in run mode 6015 with the set values.

Step 6016 evaluates conditions for shut down and causes automatic shutdown of the controller 2200 when the conditions are met. Theseconditions are indicated by “Cond 1” and “Cond 2” in FIG. 17.

Thus, during the run mode 6015, the power key 2115 may be pressed andheld for a specified duration, e.g. two seconds, to cause the controllerto be turned off in step 6016. The controller 2200 does not exit runmode 6015 until the power key 2115 is pressed for the specifiedduration.

In addition, the voltage of the battery 2220 is also measured duringoperation. If the remaining charge in battery 2220 falls below 3.2 V,for example, the controller 2200 automatically shuts down in step 6016.

As described previously, the processor 2230 holds the FET switch 2231on. However, in step 6016, the FET switch 2231, and thus the controller2200, may be turned off automatically in the following time-outsituations:

-   -   the power key 2115 has not been pressed for a period of time,        e.g. 2 minutes, to advance to step 6008 after the controller        2200 has been powered up in step 6002.    -   the power key 2115 has not been pressed for a period of time,        e.g. 5, minutes, to advance to step 6012 after the level of        electrical stimulation has been set in step 6008.    -   the power key 2115 has not been pressed for a period of time,        e.g. 5 minutes, to advance to run mode 6015 after the level of        mechanical stimulation has been set in step 6012.    -   no keys are pressed for a period time, e.g. 2 minutes, after the        controller 2200 has been powered up in step 6002 and no        stimulator 2100 is coupled to the controller 2200.    -   no keys are pressed for a period of time, e.g. 2 minutes, after        the diagnostic mode has been executed in step 6003.

As discussed previously, the processor 2230 determines and tracks thestimulator life by reading and writing to usage data on the EEPROM 2140of the stimulator 2100. FIG. 18 illustrates an example technique fordetermining and tracking the stimulator life. Initially, in step 6105,the processor 2230 reads a code location on the EEPROM 2140. Step 6110determines whether a unique code has already been written to the codelocation. If the processor 2230 detects a unique code, this indicatesthat the stimulator 2100 has already been used, so the processor 2230proceeds to step 6115 where a message is issued for the operatorindicating that the stimulator 2100 must be replaced. If the processor2230 does not detect a unique code, this indicates that the connectedstimulator 2100 is new. In this case, in step 6120, the processor 2230writes a unique code to the code location to indicate that thestimulator 2100 has been used. Furthermore, in step 6125, the processor2230 records a value, e.g. “100%,” on the EEPROM as the initial valuefor the stimulation life. Once the initial value of the stimulator lifehas been recorded in step 6125, the process continues to step 6130 wherethe processor 2230 reads the current value for the stimulator life. Step6135 determines whether the processor 2230 is in run mode 6015. If so,in step 6140, the processor 2230 decrements the value of the stimulatorlife by a certain value, or percentage. Step 6145 then determineswhether the current value for the stimulator life has reached zero. Ifthe current value for the stimulator life has reached zero, in step6150, the processor 2230 ends the run mode 6015 and issues a message forthe operator indicating that the stimulator 2100 must be replaced. Ifthe current value for the stimulator life has not reached zero, theprocess proceeds to step 6155 where the processor 2230 waits for aspecified period of time, e.g. one minute, before proceeding again tostep 6130.

As shown in FIG. 17, rather than executing step 6002, the power key 2115and up and down adjustment keys 2116 and 2117 may be operatedsimultaneously in step 6003 to power up the controller 2200 and to entera diagnostic mode where software revision, error message count, andother diagnostic information are be displayed.

As discussed previously, the graphic display 2112 may display symbols,text information, and other graphic elements which provide the operatorinformation regarding the operation of the neuro-stimulation system2000. During the operation of the embodiment of FIG. 16, the graphicdisplay 2112 may show:

A battery symbol with a varying number of “bars” that indicate theapproximate remaining charge in the battery 2220. For example: 0 Bar:3.20 V to 3.29 V (outline of symbol flashes and alert, e.g. beep, issuedby sound device 2239) 1 Bar: 3.30 V to 3.39 V 2 Bar: 3.40 V to 3.49 V 3Bar: 3.50 V to 3.54 V 4 Bar: 3.55 V to 3.59 V 5 Bar: 3.60 V or Higher

A stimulator life symbol with a bar graph symbol showing, e.g. bypercentage, the remaining time left in the life of the stimulator 2100,when the connector 2200 is connected the stimulator 2100. For example: 0Bar: less than 5% remaining (outline of symbol flashes and alert, e.g.beep, issued by sound device 2239) 1 Bar: 6% to 19% 2 Bar: 20% to 39% 3Bar: 40% to 59% 4 Bar: 60% to 79% 5 Bar: 80% to 100%

-   -   A stimulator time counter showing hour and minute which tracks        the elapsed treatment time during run mode. When the controller        is not in run mode, the hour and minute are not displayed.    -   Mechanical and electrical stimulation symbols which display the        output levels, e.g. by percentage, from the mechanical        stimulation drive 2237 and the electrical stimulation drive        2238. For example, the mechanical stimulation symbol may        indicate a value from 0% to 100%, where 0% represents no        application of mechanical stimulation and 100% represents the        application of +/−30 V to the vibration elements 2120. The        mechanical stimulation symbol may flash when the mechanical        stimulation is set to 100%. Meanwhile, the electrical        stimulation symbol may indicate a value of 0% to 100%, where 0%        represents no application of electrical stimulation and 100%        represents the application of +/−150 μA to the electrodes 2110.        The electrical stimulation symbol may flash when the electrical        stimulation is set to 100%.    -   A message area which the operator with warning messages. A        corresponding alert, e.g. beep, may be issued by the sound        device 2239. Any single key press turns the alert off. For        example, the messages may include:        -   “REPLACE STIMULATOR” when the stimulator life is less than            5%        -   “CHARGE BATTERY” when the battery voltage is less than 3.29            V        -   “SKIN PREP ERROR” when a SatDetect signal is received        -   “DISCONNNECT ERROR” when the StimEnable line indicates that            the controller 2200 and the stimulator 2100 are not coupled.

During operation, the sound device 2239 may be sounded when any key onthe keypad 2114 is pressed. For example, the sound device 2239 may issuea single short beep of approximately 200 ms. As discussed previously,the sound device 2239 may also be sounded when an alert conditionoccurs. For example, the sound device 2239 may issue a short beep every2 seconds. An issued alert may be acknowledged and ended by pressing anykey on the keypad 2114.

As discussed previously, in the embodiment of FIG. 16, the controller2200 may employ a rechargeable lithium ion battery pack for the powersupply 2220. Therefore, in this embodiment, the neuro-stimulation system2000 also employs a charging device for recharging the lithium ionbattery pack after its charge has been depleted. Referring now to FIG.19, a charging device, or console, 2300 is illustrated. The chargingconsole 2300 may be formed from ABS, or a similar material. Inparticular, the charging console 2300 includes two cradles 2310, whichmay individually receive and detachably connect a controller 2200 to aseparate charging circuit 2330. As shown in FIG. 19, the cradles 2310correspond in shape with at least a part of the controllers 2200 andpermit the controllers 2200 to slide into the cradles and be stablypositioned. In addition to sliding the controllers 2200 into the cradles2310, the controllers 2200 may snap into the cradles 2310 to furthersecure the controllers 2200 in place.

As shown in FIGS. 15B and 16, a controller 2200 may have electricalcontacts 2260, which provide an electrical connection with therechargeable battery 2220. Correspondingly, as shown in FIGS. 16 and 19,the charging console 2300 may have electrical contacts 2360, whichengage the electrical contacts 2260 of the controller 2200 when thecontroller 2200 is stably positioned in the cradle 2310. As shown, theelectrical contacts 2260 are positioned on an end surface of thecontroller 2200. When the end of the controller 2200 is received intothe cradle 2310, the electrical contacts 2260 of the controller 2200 arealigned for conductive contact with the electrical contacts 2360 of thecharging console 2300. In one embodiment, the connection between thecontroller 2200 and the charging console 2300 may employ pogo-pin, orsimilar spring-biased, contacts.

The two charging circuits 2330 are illustrated in FIG. 16. The chargingcircuits 2330 may be printed circuit boards based on Micrel, orequivalent, linear charging chip sets. The charging circuits 2330 maydraw power from a conventional universal input wall module 2400 which isplugged into a conventional electrical wall outlet. The input voltageinto the wall module 2400 may range from approximately 115 VAC to 230VAC (min). The line may have a frequency of approximately 50 Hz to 60Hz. The output voltage from the wall module 2400 may be approximately 5VDC to 16 VDC with an output current of approximately 2.5 A (min).

Meanwhile, the charge current in the charging circuits 2330 may beapproximately 1.2 Amps with a charge voltage of approximately 4.2 VDC.As indicated previously, in the embodiment of FIG. 16, the charge timemay be approximately 4 hours. The chip set may provide for an internalshutdown when the end of the charging is reached. In addition, an LEDindicator 2320 may be employed to indicate that the battery is fullycharged. For instance, it may switch from an amber color to green whencharging is complete.

In sum, embodiments of the neuro-stimulation system 2000 may provide astimulator 2100 detachably coupled to a wearable controller 2200, whichhas a user interface 2210 including a graphic display 2212 and a keypad2214. Preferred embodiments of the neuro-stimulation system 2000 havesmall, lightweight components which facilitate the application ofstimulation during therapy and do not interfere with the therapy withwires, connection cables, etc. Furthermore, through the user interface2210, embodiments may permit an operator to manually set the mechanicalstimulation level and/or the electrical stimulation level. Accordingly,the vibration elements 2120 and/or electrodes 2110 may be driven todeliver stimulation that has an aperiodic waveform and/or stimulationthat is subthreshold. Through the graphic display 2212, embodiments maydisplay data, such as information on the stimulator life and batterylife as well as the electrical and mechanical stimulation settings.Other embodiments may also have the ability to detect when thecontroller 2200 is attached to the stimulator 2100. Further embodimentshave the ability to track the remaining life in the stimulator 2100.

While the controller 2200 has been described previously with respect tothe stimulator 2100 as shown for example in FIG. 10A, it is understoodthat the controller 2200, or any aspects thereof, may be employed withother embodiments of a stimulator, or stimulator system, such as thosedescribed herein.

As described previously, the neuro-stimulation system 2000 may beapplied to provide sensory enhancement stimulation during strokerehabilitation and improve neuroplasticity, i.e. the formation oflasting functional changes in the brain. For instance, theneuro-stimulation system 2000 may be applied to a subject's arm, asillustrated in FIGS. 13A and 13B, while the arm undergoes movementassociated with post-stroke rehabilitative physical therapy.

Research in clinical neuroscience has established that recovery of CNSor PNS function following injury (e.g. stroke) in many circumstancesdepends very strongly on the level of personal involvement andcommitment to progress on the part of the sufferer. That is, if thesubject is not closely involved and directly participating in therehabilitation initiative, progress will be slowed or perhaps blocked.This need for personal motivation and participation is often cited asexplanatory for the failure of “passive rehabilitation” to generatedemonstrable functional outcomes.

On this basis, modern rehabilitation regimens rely increasingly onmethods that directly engage the subject in the process. One example isconstraint induced movement therapy (CIMT) to address hemiparesis. Thesubject's functioning extremity, e.g. right arm, is mechanically blockedfrom use for long periods of time thereby forcing the subject to usetheir affected extremity. Another example is customized physical therapyin which the regiment is designed specifically around tasks andabilities that are important to an individual subject. Common to theseand other forms of participatory rehabilitation is that the subject'sown brain is volitionally striving toward movements and capabilities ofpersonal importance to them.

More recently, the use of virtual reality (VR) systems has gainedclinical momentum as another form of participatory rehabilitation. Aspart of a rehabilitation regimen, subjects interact with a VR systemthat reacts in real time to their attempts to use affected extremities.Often the VR system is essentially a computer video game system thatdisplays real-time images on a monitor that react to or are controlledby the subject. Such a system can be adjusted to the subject'sparticular circumstance to motivate certain types of attemptedmovements. As such, a further embodiment of the present inventioncombines subthreshold neuro-stimulation with VR systems. An example VRsystem which may be employed is the Nintendo® Wii gaming system. In thisembodiment, stimulation devices, such as the devices described herein,would be placed on the skin, or implanted under the skin, and woulddeliver subthreshold neuro-stimulation during VR-guided activities. Asis the case with other forms of rehabilitation, boosting sensory trafficduring VR rehabilitation sessions improves neuroplastic remodelingoutcomes. Like other embodiments described herein, this embodiment takesadvantage of the interplay between subthreshold stimulation and physicalrehabilitation. The individual receives the heretofore unanticipatedbenefit of receiving subthreshold stimulation while moving the targetbody segments. Since by definition subsensory stimulation does not byitself evoke nerve activity, the embodiment employs physical activity toultimately cause the nerve activity. The subthreshold stimulationeffectively and uniquely boosts the natural sensory signaling in afashion that is directly useful to the central nervous system.

However, it is understood that the application of subthresholdneuro-stimulation for stroke rehabilitation is merely exemplary. FIG.21A illustrates a configuration for a neuro-stimulation system 3000Awhich may be broadly employed to direct stimulation to any sensory cellsof any body part to enhance detection of a sensory signal from thesensory cells. In particular, as shown in FIG. 21A, the neuro-stimulatorsystem 3000A includes a stimulator 3100A which delivers stimulation to abody part 1. To control and drive the stimulator 3200A, theneuro-stimulation system 3000A includes at least a power supply 3220Aand a processor 3230A, which collectively may be referred to as acontroller 3200A (illustrated with a dotted line in FIG. 21A). Thestimulator 3100A and controller 3200A in this embodiment may berespectively similar to the stimulator 2100 and the controller 2200 ofthe neuro-stimulator system 2000 described above.

The processor 3230A receives electrical power from the power supply3220A and sends an electrical driving signal to the stimulator 3100,which is operably coupled to the processor 3230A. The stimulator 3100Aincludes a stimulating element 3105A. The stimulating element 3105A mayinclude one or more electrode devices for delivering electricalstimulation, one or more vibration elements for delivering mechanicalstimulation, or any combination thereof. Unlike the stimulator 2100above, the stimulator 3100A in some embodiments may be configured toinclude only electrodes or only vibrating elements, rather than bothforms of stimulating elements. The processor 3230 is operable to driveeither electrode devices and/or a vibration elements with the electricaldriving signal. The stimulator 3100A has a contact surface 3102A whichis positioned to deliver stimulation from simulating element 3105A tothe targeted body part 1. Accordingly, in response to the electricaldriving signal, the stimulator 3100A provides stimulation to the bodypart 1. Preferably, the stimulation is aperiodic stimulation and/orsubthreshold stimulation, providing the advantages described previously.

Although a stimulator may be detachably coupled to a controller as withthe neuro-stimulator 2000 above, a stimulator and a controller may alsobe integrally or fixedly coupled to each other. As illustrated with theembodiment of FIG. 21A, the stimulator 3100A may be included with theprocessor 3230A and the power supply 3220A in a single application body,or housing, 3001A. This single application body 3001A may then beapplied to the body part 1 to deliver the stimulation.

Of course, different components of a neuro-stimulation system may beorganized and coupled in any number of combinations and housed in anynumber of devices or bodies. Thus, referring to FIG. 21B, aneuro-stimulation system 3000B is illustrated, where a power supply3220B is separated from an application body 3001B housing a stimulator3100B and a processor 3230B. For example, the power supply 3220B in FIG.21B may be a battery pack or a conventional electrical outlet that isdetachably coupled to the application body 3001B. The application body3001B is positioned to deliver stimulation to a body part 1 through acontact surface 3102B.

Meanwhile, FIG. 21C illustrates a neuro-stimulation system 3000C, wherea stimulator 3100C is housed in an application body 3001C while acontroller 3200C, i.e. a power supply 3220C and a processor 3230C, is ina separate controller housing 3002C. The stimulator 3100 is detachablyor fixedly coupled to the controller 3200C via a coupling mechanism3050C, such as a flexible cable, that enables the processor 3230C todeliver a driving signal to a stimulating element 3105C from a distance.The application body 3001C is positioned to deliver stimulation througha contact surface 3102C. Advantageously, because the application body3001C does not house the power supply 3230 and the processor 3230, theapplication body 3001C may be sized or configured to enable easyhandling and positioning on a body part 1 for the delivery ofstimulation, while the controller 3200 is placed conveniently at adistance.

Attachment elements, such as an elastic strap or, a strap with snaps,hook-and-loop fasteners, or other fasteners may be employed to securethe stimulator and/or the controller into desired positions. In theembodiment of FIG. 22C, an attachment element may position theapplication body 3001C over the body part 1 targeted for stimulation,while another attachment element may secure the controller housing 3002Cto another part of the body for comfort and convenience.

FIGS. 21A-C illustrate contact surfaces that make direct contact withthe body part 1, for example at a skin surface, to deliver the desiredstimulation. However, the actual stimulating element, e.g. electrodeand/or vibration element, does not have to contact the body part 1directly. Rather, as shown in FIG. 21A, the electrical or mechanicalstimulation may be transmitted from the stimulating element 3105A withinthe application body 3001A to the contact surface 3102A. For example,the stimulating element 3105A may be embedded within the applicationbody 3001A, while the outer contact surface 3102A actually makes contactwith the body part 1. In this example, the application body 3001A, orsome structure thereof, may be formed from a material that allows anelectrical signal or vibration to travel from the stimulating element3105A to the contact surface 3102A.

Various applications of the neuro-stimulation systems, as shown in FIGS.21A-C, may be employed to deliver sensory enhancing stimulation to anybody part 1.

In one embodiment, the body part 1 includes aspects of the body that aidin swallowing, including the tongue, pharynx, and esophagus, and aneuro-stimulation system is applied to improve swallowing function,especially for patients suffering from dysphagia. As such, anapplication body housing a stimulator may be applied externally acrossthe neck to deliver electrical or mechanical stimulation to the tongue,pharynx, and/or esophagus. Alternatively, a small application body maybe applied in the throat, especially for patients with severe or chronicdisorders. The application of stimulation enhances the sensoryinformation required by the swallowing function and improves control ofthis swallowing function. In some embodiments, the swallowing functionto be improved is the sensation of the presence of a solid or liquidbolus in the throat. In other embodiments, the swallowing function to beimproved is timing of swallowing muscle contraction relative to movementof solid or liquid bolus in the throat. In further embodiments, theswallowing function to be improved is the timing of the closure of thetrachea relative to the movement of solid or liquid bolus in the throat.

In another embodiment, the body part 1 is the heart and aneuro-stimulation system is applied to improve cardiac function forpatients who suffer from congestive heart failure. A key function ofhealthy heart muscle is the regulation of contractions based on itsinternal stretch (from filling), which uses mechanoreceptors similar tomuscle spindles found in striated muscle. Poor cardiac function resultswhen this mechanism is compromised. As such, an application body housinga stimulator may be applied outside or inside the chest cavity todeliver stochastic resonance stimulation to the heart muscle, making theheart more resistant to overfilling, which may improve cardiac functionin patients suffering from congestive heart failure.

In an additional embodiment, the body part 1 includes the lungs, and aneuro-stimulation system may be applied to improve lungsensation/function in asthmatic patients. An application body isnoninvasively applied to the surface of the chest where sub-thresholdstimulation may be most effectively transferred to the intercostalsmuscle. A stimulator in the application body may provide electricaland/or mechanical stimulation from any number of electrodes and/orvibrating elements, which are driven by a controller. In a particularembodiment, the configuration of FIG. 21C may be employed where thecontroller 3200C is kept in a controller housing 3002C separated by adistance from the application body 3001C. The controller housing 3002C,for example, may approximately have the size of a pack of cigarettes andmay be secured to an attachment element, such as a wrist band, via abelt-clip. Thus, the coupling mechanism 3050C may include control andsignal wires which extend run from the controller housing 3002C to theapplication body 3001C positioned at the chest. Accordingly, thestimulation from the stimulator 3100C increases the awareness of lungstate during asthmatic attacks and offers better control of breathingduring these attacks. The expansion and/or contraction of the lung thusincreases with the stimulation of the intercostals muscle in the chestregion.

In yet another embodiment, a neuro-stimulation system may be applied asa therapy for patients suffering from Parkinson's disease. For example,an application body housing a stimulator may be applied to an affectedmuscle to deliver a noninvasive, sub-threshold electrical and/ormechanical stimulation to improve the patient's ability to sense muscleposition and offer better control of muscle flexion. Thus, unwantedmotions or movements in affected muscles or muscle groups associatedwith Parkinson's disease are minimized.

In a further embodiment, a neuro-stimulation system may be applied tomanage pain. Contrary to Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation(TENS) which manages pain by overloading a sensory channel, theneuro-stimulation system in this embodiment applies subthresholdstimulation in a less invasive technique to ground the sensory channelinstead of overloading it. In some cases, the pain is caused bymusculoskeletal hyperextension or excursion resulting fromproprioceptive deficit in the body part. For example, back pain may becaused by a proprioceptive deficit in a person's trunk and in oneembodiment, neuro-stimulation may be applied to increase stability andstrength to manage this back pain.

In yet a further embodiment, the body part 1 is the forehead and, aneuro-stimulation system may be applied to reduce chronic/tensionheadaches. For instance, an application body housing a stimulator may beapplied noninvasively to affected muscles or muscle groups in theforehead area where sub-threshold stimulation may be applied to controltension and relieve chronic pain due to uncontrollable muscle spasms.The stimulator in the application body may provide electrical and/ormechanical stimulation from any number of electrodes and/or vibratingelements, which are driven by a controller.

In another embodiment, the body part 1 employs a prosthetic device, anda neuro-stimulation system may be applied to improve function with theprosthetic device. Generally, sensors on prostheses (proprioception,pressure, etc.) are introduced to pectoral sensory pathways andsuccessfully decoded by the brain. The brain forms new neuralconnections to process and use the information from the sensors on theprosthesis. This embodiment applies stochastic resonance stimulation inconjunction with the signals from the sensors to promote neuraldevelopment and to increase the sensitivity of the pectoral nerves tothese signals. For example, a stimulator may be incorporated with theprosthetic device to deliver electrical and/or mechanical stimulationduring use of the prosthetic device.

In yet another embodiment, a neuro-stimulation system may be applied toreduce phantom limb sensations by those who have lost a limb. Inparticular, an application body housing a stimulator may be applied todeliver stochastic resonance stimulation to severed nerves associatedwith the missing limb or to surrounding intact nerves. Such stimulationencourages the brain to dissociate the neural connections causingphantom limb or phantom pain sensations. Applying the stimulation tosevered nerves provides the brain with greater information about thecurrent state of the body, alerting the brain of the loss of the limb.Applying the stimulation to surrounding intact nerves encourages thebrain to focus on the neural connections that are not associated withthe damage.

In a further embodiment, a neuro-stimulation system may be employed forstrength training in patients with a sensory deficit. Recent studieshave shown that people who actually did certain physical exercises, e.g.finger exercises, gained no more strength than people who did nophysical exercise but simply thought about doing the exercise for thesame amount of time. Thus, a stimulator may deliver stochastic resonancestimulation to the joints of a patient with a sensory deficit. Suchstimulation may result in a faster increase strength by making the brainmore aware of body movement.

In yet a further embodiment, a neuro-stimulation system may be employedas a therapy for arousal dysfunction. An application body housing astimulator may be applied to appropriate areas to deliver stimulationand improve sexual sensory function in these areas.

In another embodiment, the body part 1 may be a finger tip that is usedto read Braille, and a neuro-stimulation system may be employed toimprove sensory function corresponding to Braille reading ability. Thecontact surface for delivery of stimulation is a surface with Braillewhich is then coupled to a stimulator. Stochastic resonance stimulationapplied to finger tips has been shown to improve detection of smallstimuli. The use of the Braille system for vision impaired reading oftext requires precision on the part of the reader to identify smallraised dots on paper. This effort can be difficult when the reader isnew to Braille, the print is small, or the pages are worn. Therefore,the stimulator 3100 of the neuro-stimulator system 3000 may providestochastic resonance stimulation to the finger tip to improve a person'sability to detect the raised dots of Braille text. This embodiment is anexample of an external device, e.g. the Braille surface, that isprovided with a stimulation source and when a body part, e.g. the fingertip, contacts or interacts with the external device, the stimulationsource applies the stimulation to sensory cells of the body part toenhance sensory function associated with the body part. Other examplesof such external devices are provided herein.

In yet another embodiment, the body part 1 may be the nasal septum whilethe contact surface may be sized and configured to accommodate stablepositioning on the nasal septum. As such, the neuro-stimulation systemmay be applied to improve the olfactory function of a human. Theapplication of a sub-threshold electrical and/or mechanical signal tothe nasal septum increases sensation and provides an improvement in thesense of smell. Therefore, one or more stimulators are positioned toapply a sub-threshold signal to the nasal septum. Preferably, to promotecomfort and ease of use, only a small stimulator is positioned on thenasal septum while the controller is positioned elsewhere. Thus,referring to FIG. 21C, the stimulator 3100C may be housed in anapplication body 3001C and the controller 3200C may have a separatehousing 3002C. In particular, the housing 3002C for the controller 3200Cmay be shaped like a cigarette pack, which can conveniently placed in ashirt pocket or worn on the waist via a belt clip.

Similarly, yet another embodiment of the neuro-stimulator may beemployed to improve the olfactory function of a canine. Canines areoften used in tasks requiring the use of smell as a way of locating anobject or person. These tasks include searching for missing persons,detecting explosives, and locating contraband such as drugs. Thus, inthis application, referring to FIG. 21C, the body part 1 is a canine'snose, and the application body 3001C housing the stimulator 3100C isconfigured to fit across the nose with a first attachment element whilethe controller 3200C in a housing 3002C may be separately mounted onanother part of the canine with a second attachment element, such as adog collar.

Further embodiments of the neuro-stimulator system may be employed toimprove auditory sensory function and detection of audio signals. Insome embodiments, the neuro-stimulation system provides an electrical oraudio noise signal with hearing assistive devices, e.g. hearing aids,cochlear implants, etc., to improve the auditory function of their usersand the effectiveness of these devices. With such embodiments, thehearing assistive device may act as the application body 3001A whichhouses the complete neuro-stimulation system 3000A, as depicted in FIG.21A. When employed to improve auditory function, the body part 1includes aspects of the auditory system which affect the auditorynerves, while the stimulator sends a signal that may be received by theauditory system. Although FIGS. 21A-C illustrate a contact surfacepositioned in direct contact with the body part 1, it is understood thatother embodiments may deliver stimulation to the body part 1 withoutdirect contact. For example, a stimulation in the form of sound may bedelivered across a space between the stimulator 3100 and the body part1. As such, to improve a subject's ability to hear particular sounds,the neuro-stimulation system 3000 may combine a noise signal with theparticular sounds that are transmitted over a space to the subject. Forexample, audio recordings that require transcription may be combinedwith a noise signal to improve the transcriber's ability to detect theaudio. In another example, audio signals from a sonar system may becombined with a noise signal to improve the monitor's ability to detectfaint sonar signals.

Another embodiment of the neuro-stimulation system is employed toimprove visual function, where the body part 1 is the eye. In thisembodiment, the neuro-stimulation system may add noise to the visualsignal, or light, from the object being viewed. For example, vision isused extensively in the scrutiny of images (x-ray, etc.) for medicaldiagnosis or in the screening of packages and contents for securitypurposes. The neuro-stimulation system may generate noise in a band ofvisual wavelengths, and the noise may be transmitted along with theimages, such as those from a security screening monitor. The stimulationfrom the transmitted noise may improve the ability to detect weakinformation being received by the eye. Similar to the improvement ofauditory function described previously, stimulation in the form ofvisual signals may be delivered across a space between the stimulatorand the body part 1.

Yet another embodiment of the neuro-stimulation system is employed toimprove tasting function, where the body part 1 is a tongue. Adiscriminating palate is key to the process of taste testing used in theculinary arts, brewing, etc. As such, the contact surface of astimulator may be placed into contact with areas of the tongue surfaceto deliver electrical or mechanical stimulation from the simulatingelement 3105 to the gustatory (taste nerve) cells. Such stimulationimproves the ability of the subject to taste. Due to relatively limitedaccess to the tongue inside the mouth, referring to FIG. 21C thestimulator 3100C may employ an application body 3001C that is separatefrom the housing 3002C of the controller 3200C. Thus, components of theneuro-stimulation system 3000C, i.e. the controller 3200C, do not haveto be positioned on the tongue, and the application body 3001C may beconveniently sized and configured to be easily and comfortablypositioned on the tongue inside the mouth.

While FIGS. 21A-C illustrate general configurations for aneuro-stimulation system, FIGS. 22A-B illustrate specific exampleembodiments of neuro-stimulation systems that may be applied to addressparticular medical conditions. As illustrated in FIG. 22A, aneuro-stimulation system 4000 is employed to deliver electricalstimulation, stochastic resonance or otherwise, to an internal organ.Use of this embodiment may include applying stimulation to: the bladderand colon as therapy for incontinence; the stomach as therapy fordisorders involving the feeling of fullness; the gall bladder as therapyfor bile secretion; or the esophagus, intestines, urethra, and bile ductfor peristaltic encouragement or improvement. As shown in FIG. 22A, theapplication body 4001 of the stimulator 4100 is an expandable material,such as a mesh, which is positioned over an organ, or body part, 1. Theapplication body 4001 accommodates expansion and contraction of theorgan during normal function, e.g. during filling of the bladder, etc.The stimulating elements 4105 may be electrodes which are distributedover the stimulation application body 4001 to provide diffuseapplication of electrical stimulation over targeted surfaces of theorgan 1. During application, the expandable material 4001 is trimmed toaccommodate the size of the targeted organ 1 and may be sutured atselected points to the surface of the organ 1. In addition to serving asattachment elements 4500, the suture points help keep the applicationbody 4001 in tension across the organ 1. The stimulator 4100 may becomposed of one or more resorbable materials, including resorbableconducting metals or polymers for the electrodes 4105. As such,additional procedures to remove the stimulator 4100 are unnecessary. Asfurther illustrated in FIG. 22A, the stimulator 4100 is coupled to aremote controller 4200, which includes a power source 4220 and processor4230 to drive the electrodes and deliver electrical stimulation to theorgan 1.

FIG. 22B illustrates yet another embodiment of the neuro-stimulator 5000which may deliver stimulation to multiple points of a body part 1. Inparticular, FIG. 21E shows a stimulation application body 5001 which hasa catheter-like structure having a proximal end 5001A and a distal end5001B. The stimulator 5100 may be applied subcutaneously. Thestimulating elements 5105 include a plurality of electrodes which arespaced longitudinally along the stimulation application body 5001 toprovide electrical stimulation to multiple parts of a body part 1. Eachstimulating element 5105 receives an electrical signal via a conductor,such as a wire, that extends longitudinally to the proximal end 5001Awhich is operably coupled to a controller 5200. The controller 5200 hasa processor 5230 which delivers electrical signals from a power source5220 to selected electrodes along the application body 5001. As such,the processor 5230 can define any combination and sequence of electricalstimulation sources and sinks along the application body 5001. Thus, theneuro-stimulation system 5100 in FIG. 22B provides a customizableconfiguration which facilitates application of stimulation to differentregions of the body and which may suit the varying needs of patients.

Although an application body in a neuro-stimulation system may bespecially shaped or configured to accommodate a particular body part todeliver stimulation, other neuro-stimulation systems may incorporate astimulator into the structure of another device, such as a consumerproduct, which is initially intended to provide other functions outsideof stimulation delivery. As such, the device, or a part thereof, becomesan application body for stimulation delivery. Combining aneuro-stimulation system with another device may improve an operator'sability to use the device or may enhance the effectiveness of thedevice. The prosthetic device combined one or more simulators or thehearing assistive device combined with one or more stimulators,described previously, provide examples of neuro-stimulation systems thatincorporate a stimulator within another device.

In another example, a stimulator may be incorporated into a gun or rifleto deliver stimulation that improves a person's ability to shoot a gun.Accurate gun shooting is required especially in long range targeting,such as sniping. One aspect of accurate gun shooting is the ability ofthe shooter to control the precise action of a hair trigger and maintaingun stock position relative to the shooter's body as the projectile isfired from the gun. An embodiment of a neuro-stimulation system mayincorporate a stimulator with a vibrating stimulating element into thetrigger and/or the gun stock. As such, the gun may provide stochasticresonance stimulation to a trigger finger through the gun trigger and/orto a region of the body between the arm and torso through the gun stock.In this example, parts of the gun act as application bodies for thedelivery of sensory enhancement stimulation.

In yet another example, an embodiment of a neuro-stimulation system mayincorporate stimulators into a waterproof shower mat to deliverstochastic resonance stimulation to a person's feet and reduce thelikelihood that the person will fall in the shower. In a particularembodiment, the shower mat may be battery powered and may employ forcesensors in the mat to determine where the foot is making contact andallow focused delivery of stimulation to areas of the mat where theperson is standing. As discussed previously, the delivery of suchstimulation to the feet enhances human balance, reducing the likelihoodof falling.

In a further example, an embodiment of a neuro-stimulation system mayincorporate a stimulator into a sock, which delivers stochasticresonance stimulation to a foot. The stimulating element may be formedfrom a flexible polymer which vibrates from an electrical signalreceived from a controller coupled to the stimulator. The sock conformsto the shape of the foot and remains in contact with areas of the bottomof the foot without requiring any load on the bottom of the sock.Advantageously, the sock may be used by diabetics and other similarindividuals who are not physically active and do not spend a significantamount of time on their feet to place a load on the sock. Even whileseated or lying down, the sock maintains contact with the soles of thefoot, so that the foot receives the effect of stimulation delivered bythe stimulator. The benefits of applying such a stimulation to thebottom of the foot were described previously. In a particularembodiment, the controller may deliver different driving signals to thestimulating element depending on the load on the sock, i.e. loaddifferences between standing and sitting. As such, a sensor may beemployed to indicate the loading state of the sock to the controller, sothat the driving signal may be correspondingly adjusted.

Therefore, embodiments of the present invention provide a variety ofconfigurations and shapes for delivering controlled stimulation to anysensory cells of any body part according to a variety of therapeuticapplications. In some preferred embodiments, subthreshold and/oraperiodic stimulation is applied to enhance transmission and detectionof sensory information. In some applications, this results in improvedneuromuscular performance.

It is understood that while the embodiments described herein may providesubthreshold and/or a periodic stimulation, the embodiments may also becapable of providing supra-threshold stimulation. In particular,supra-threshold stimulation may be applied as technique to determine,e.g. iteratively, a person's sensory threshold during initial systemsetup and before the subthreshold and/or a periodic stimulation isapplied.

However, the foregoing specific embodiments of the present invention asset forth in the specification herein are for illustrative purposesonly. Various deviations and modifications can be made within the spiritand scope of this invention, without departing from the main themethereof. It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that thepresent invention is not limited by what has been particularly shown anddescribed herein above. While the present invention has been describedin connection with a number of exemplary embodiments, andimplementations, the present inventions are not so limited, but rathercover various modifications, and equivalent arrangements, which fallwithin the purview of prospective claims. All dimensions, and the like,provided herein are exemplary.

1. A system for providing neuro-stimulation to a body part, the systemcomprising: a controller including: a user interface; a power supply; atleast one electrical connector; and a processor with software, theprocessor determining, according to values entered into the userinterface, an electrical signal directed from the power supply to the atleast one electrical connector; and a stimulator adapted to bedetachably coupled to the controller via the at least one electricalconnector, the stimulator including: a plurality of stimulatingelements, including at least one electrode device and at least onevibration element; and an attachment element to attach the stimulator toa body part, wherein the controller is operable to drive at least one ofthe stimulating elements with an electrical signal, and in response tothe electrical signal, at least one of the stimulating elements providesa stimulation for the body part, the stimulation being at least one of asubthreshold stimulation and an aperiodic stimulation.
 2. The systemaccording to claim 1, wherein the controller has an operational mode inwhich only the at least one electrode device provides the stimulation.3. The system according to claim 1, wherein the controller has anoperational mode in which only the at least one vibration elementprovides the stimulation.
 4. The system according to claim 1, furthercomprising a battery charging console, the battery charging consolereceiving power from an external power supply and providing power fromthe external power supply to at least one rechargeable battery through arecharging contact when the controller is received by the batterycharging console, wherein the power supply includes the at least onerechargeable battery.
 5. The system according to claim 1, wherein thestimulator further comprises a data storage device storing usage datafor the stimulator.
 6. The system according to claim 5, wherein theusage data includes a total amount of time that the stimulator has beenemployed to provide stimulation for the body part.
 7. The systemaccording to claim 6, wherein, when the stimulator is detachablyconnected to the controller, the processor updates the total amount oftime as the stimulator provides stimulation for the body part.
 8. Thesystem according to claim 7, wherein, when the stimulator is detachablyconnected to the controller, the processor does not deliver theelectrical signal to the stimulator if the processor determines that thetotal amount of time exceeds a time limit value.
 9. The system accordingto claim 5, wherein the usage data includes a usage indicator indicatingwhether the stimulator has been used.
 10. The system according to claim9, wherein, after the stimulator is detachably coupled to the controllerand the processor determines from the usage indicator that thestimulator has not been previously used, the processor communicates datato the usage indicator indicating that the stimulator has been used. 11.The system according to claim 10, wherein, after the stimulator isdetachably coupled to the controller and the processor determines fromthe usage indicator that the stimulator has been previously used, theprocessor does not deliver the electrical signal to the stimulator. 12.The system according to claim 5, wherein the stimulator further includesa flex circuit connecting the at least one electrode device, the atleast one vibration element, and the data storage device, and theprocessor is connected to the flex circuit when the stimulator isdetachably connected to the controller.
 13. The system according toclaim 12, wherein the at least one electrical connector comprises an-pin connector, and the processor detects a coupling with thestimulator by detecting a short between two pins created by the flexcircuit when the controller and the stimulator are detachably coupledvia the n-pin connector.
 14. The system according to claim 1, whereinthe stimulation is directed to sensory cells of the body part to enhancedetection of an external signal by a subject, the sensory cellscorresponding to a sensory function of the body part.
 15. A method ofenhancing sensorimotor performance in a subject comprising the steps of:inputting an aperiodic signal to at least one sensory cell area of thesubject; moving at least one body segment of the subject relative toanother simultaneous with the step of inputting an aperiodic signal toat least one sensory cell area of the subject, wherein the at least onebody segment utilizes sensory cells within the sensory cell area that isinvolved in the sensorimotor performance to be enhanced; and inducingneuroplastic changes in the nervous system of the subject by inputtingthe aperiodic signal for a period of time long enough that the subject'ssensorimotor performance is enhanced.
 16. The method according to claim15, wherein the step of moving comprises moving according to a virtualreality system.
 17. The method according to claim 15, wherein the stepof moving comprises moving according to physical therapy.
 18. The methodaccording to claim 15, wherein the physical therapy is device-augmentedtherapy.
 19. The method according to claim 18, wherein thedevice-augmented therapy uses a treadmill or an exercise bicycle. 20.The method according to claim 15, wherein the aperiodic signal isprovided at a subthreshold level.
 21. The method according to claim 15,further comprising the step of inputting a subthreshold signal to the atleast one sensory cell area of the subject.
 22. A method for providingneuro-stimulation to a body part with a neuro-stimulation device havinga stimulator configured to provide at least one of an aperiodicstimulation and a subthreshold stimulation, the method comprising thestep of applying, via the stimulator, at least one of an aperiodicstimulation and a subthreshold stimulation to at least one body part tomitigate muscle tension, contracture, or spasm resulting fromneurodegenerative disease.
 23. A method for providing neuro-stimulationto a body part with a neuro-stimulation device having a stimulatorconfigured to provide at least one of an aperiodic stimulation and asubthreshold stimulation, the method comprising the step of applying,via the stimulator, at least one of an aperiodic stimulation and asubthreshold stimulation to an intercostal muscle in a chest area of anasthmatic patient to improve lung function.
 24. A method for providingneuro-stimulation to a body part with a neuro-stimulation device havinga stimulator configured to provide at least one of an aperiodicstimulation and a subthreshold stimulation, the method comprising thestep of applying, via the stimulator, at least one of an aperiodicstimulation and a subthreshold stimulation to an area where pain is feltby a subject.
 25. The method according to claim 24, wherein the pain iscaused by musculoskeletal hyperextension or excursion resulting fromproprioceptive deficit in the body part.
 26. A method for providingneuro-stimulation to a body part with a neuro-stimulation device havinga stimulator configured to provide at least one of an aperiodicstimulation and a subthreshold stimulation, the method comprising thestep of applying, via the stimulator, at least one of an aperiodicstimulation and a subthreshold stimulation to a joint of a subject witha sensory deficit to enhance awareness of body movement and increasemuscle strength.
 27. A method for providing neuro-stimulation to a bodypart with a neuro-stimulation device having a stimulator configured toprovide at least one of an aperiodic stimulation and a subthresholdstimulation, the method comprising the step of applying, via thestimulator, at least one of an aperiodic stimulation and a subthresholdstimulation to swallowing organs to improve swallowing function.
 28. Themethod according to claim 27, wherein the swallowing function to beimproved is the sensation of the presence of a solid or liquid bolus inthe throat.
 29. The method according to claim 27, wherein the swallowingfunction to be improved is timing of swallowing muscle contractionrelative to movement of solid or liquid bolus in the throat.
 30. Themethod according to claim 27, wherein the swallowing function to beimproved is the timing of the closure of the trachea relative to themovement of solid or liquid bolus in the throat.
 31. A method forimproving cardiac function with a neuro-stimulation device having astimulator configured to provide at least one of an aperiodicstimulation and a subthreshold stimulation, the method comprisingapplying, via the stimulator, at least one of an aperiodic stimulationand a subthreshold stimulation to a heart muscle, whereby resistance tooverfilling is enhanced.
 32. The method according to claim 22, 23, 24,25, 27, 28, 29, 30, or 31 wherein the stimulation comprises electricalstimulation.
 33. The method according to claim 22, 23, 24, 25, 27, 28,29, 30, or 31 wherein the stimulation comprises mechanical stimulation.34. The method according to claim 22, 23, 24, 25, 27, 28, 29, 30, or 31wherein the stimulation comprises electrical and mechanical stimulation.35. A method for enhancing sensory function in a subject, the methodcomprising: providing a stimulation source to an external device,wherein the stimulation source provides a stimulation including at leastone of a subthreshold stimulation and an aperiodic stimulation; andreceiving, with the external device, an interaction with a body part,wherein the stimulation source applies the stimulation to sensory cellsof the body part during the contact to enhance sensory functionassociated with the body part.
 36. The method according to claim 35,wherein the interaction provides a tactile signal to the body part, andthe stimulation enhances detection of the tactile signal with thesensory cells.
 37. The method according to claim 36, wherein the bodypart is a fingertip, and the stimulation enhances detection of thetactile signal with the sensory cells.
 38. The method according to claim37, wherein the external device is a surface with Braille and the stepof receiving an interaction comprises receiving the fingertip into acontact with the Braille surface.
 39. The method according to claim 37,wherein the external device is a trigger of a firearm and the step ofreceiving an interaction comprises receiving the fingertip into contactwith the trigger of a firearm.
 40. The method according to claim 35,wherein the external device is a gun stock and the interaction providesa tactile signal through the gun stock to the body part, and thestimulation enhances detection of the gun stock position with thesensory cells.
 41. The method according to claim 35, wherein the bodypart is a sexual organ, and the stimulation enhances detection of thetactile signal with the sensory cells.
 42. The method according to claim35, wherein the interaction provides an olfactory signal to a nose, andthe stimulation enhances detection of the olfactory signal with thesensory cells.
 43. The method according to claim 42, wherein the subjectis a canine.
 44. The method according to claim 43, wherein the step ofreceiving an interaction with the body part exposes the nose of thecanine to contraband.
 45. The method according to claim 35, wherein theinteraction provides a visual signal to an eye, and the stimulationenhances detection of the visual signal with the sensory cells.
 46. Themethod according to claim 35, wherein the interaction provides an auralsignal to an ear, and the stimulation enhances detection of the auralsignal with the sensory cells.
 47. The method according to claim 46,wherein the external device is a hearing assistive device.
 48. Themethod according to claim 35, wherein the interaction provides a flavorsignal to a tongue, and the stimulation enhances detection of the flavorsignal with the sensory cells.
 49. A firearm for enhancing accuracy inshooting applications, the firearm comprising: a controller including: apower supply; an electrical connector; and a processor determining anelectrical signal directed from the power supply to the electricalconnector; and at least one stimulator operably coupled to thecontroller via the electrical connector and positioned on at least oneof a trigger and a gun stock, the at least one stimulator including atleast one of an electrode device and a vibration element, wherein, theprocessor is operable to drive at least one of the electrode device andthe vibration element with the electrical signal, and in response to theelectrical signal, at least one of the electrode device and thevibration element provides a stimulation to sensory cells in contactwith at least one of the trigger and the gun stock.
 50. The systemaccording to claim 50, wherein the controller has an operational mode inwhich the electrical signal has an aperiodic waveform.
 51. The systemaccording to claim 50, wherein the controller has an operational mode inwhich the stimulation to the body part is subthreshold.
 52. A system forproviding neuro-stimulation through contact with a body part, the systemcomprising: a stimulator including: a flexible, expandable attachmentelement having a surface area corresponding to a body part surface areaand configured to be attached to the body part surface area; and atleast one electrode device attached to the attachment element to bepositioned over the surface area of the body part, wherein thestimulation is configured to provide at least one of an aperiodicstimulation and a subthreshold stimulation.
 53. The system according toclaim 53, wherein the attachment element is a mesh.
 54. The systemaccording to claim 53, wherein the attachment element is bioresorbable.55. A system for providing neuro-stimulation through contact with a bodypart, the system comprising: a stimulator including: a flexible,expandable attachment element having a surface area corresponding to abody part surface area and configured to be attached to the body partsurface area; and at least one electrode device attached to theattachment element to be positioned over the surface area of the bodypart, wherein the stimulation is configured to provide at least one ofan aperiodic stimulation and a subthreshold stimulation. the methodcomprising: attaching the attachment element over the surface area ofthe body part; applying, via the stimulator, at least one of anaperiodic stimulation and a subthreshold stimulation to the body part.56. The method according to claim 56, wherein the step of attaching theattachment element comprises attaching the attachment element to thebody part via sutures.
 57. The method according to claim 56, wherein thebody part is the bladder, colon, stomach, gall bladder, esophagus,intestines, urethra, or bile duct.
 58. A mat comprising: a top surfacefor contact a foot of a subject; a bottom surface for contact with afloor; a controller including: a power supply; an electrical connector;and a circuit determining an electrical signal directed from the powersupply to the electrical connector; and a stimulator operably coupled tothe controller via the electrical connector and operably coupled to thetop surface, wherein the processor is operable to drive the stimulatorwith the electrical signal, and in response to the electrical signal,the stimulator provides a stimulation to the top surface, thestimulation being at least one of an aperiodic stimulation and asubthreshold stimulation.
 59. The mat according to claim 59, furthercomprising force sensors to detect a position of the foot, wherein thestimulator focuses delivery of the stimulation to the position.
 60. Acatheter comprising: an elongate body, a plurality of stimulatorspositioned along the elongate body, wherein the one or more of thestimulators are configured to provide a stimulation, wherein thestimulation is at least one of an aperiodic stimulation or subthresholdstimulation.
 61. A system for enhancing sensorimotor performance in asubject comprising: a wearable device to which is secured at least onesignal input device, wherein the at least one signal input device isrepositionable on the wearable device; and a signal generator forgenerating a bias signal, wherein the signal generator iscommunicatively coupled to the at least one signal input device.
 62. Thesystem of claim 62, wherein the signal generator includes a powersource, a signal processor and a controller.
 63. The system of claim 63,wherein the signal processor includes a calibration module for adjustingthe bias signal produced by the signal processor.
 64. The system ofclaim 62, wherein the wearable device is adapted to forcibly press thesignal input device to the subject's skin surface.
 65. The system ofclaim 62, wherein the wearable device is composed of stretchable fabric.66. The system of claim 62, wherein the signal generator isrepositionable and removably attached to the wearable device.
 67. Thesystem of claim 62, wherein the signal input device is electricallyconnected to the signal generator.
 68. The system of claim 62, whereinthe signal generator is communicatively coupled to the signal inputdevice by an electrical conductor, at least a portion of the electricalconductor being secured within the wearable device and protected by thewearable device.
 69. A method of increasing growth hormone release in asubject comprising the step of: increasing afferent signaling to thepituitary gland and growth hormone release by inputting at least onebias signal to at least one sensory cell area of a subject while thesubject is performing a physical activity utilizing sensory cells withinthe sensory cell area, the bias signal causing the sensory cells toproduce the growth hormone.
 70. A method of increasing growth hormonerelease in a subject comprising the step of: increasing afferentsignaling to the pituitary gland and growth hormone release by inputtingat least one bias signal to at least one sensory cell area of a subjectwhile the subject is performing a physical activity which utilizessensory cells within the sensory cell area, wherein inputting the atleast one bias signal improves the function of the sensory cells, thesystem comprising a wearable device to which at least onerespositionable signal input device is secured, and a signal generatorcommunicatively coupled to the at least one signal input device.
 71. Asystem for improving neuroplasticity in a subject in accordance with themethod of: inputting at least one bias signal to at least one sensorycell area of a subject while the subject is performing a pre-definedphysical activity which utilizes sensory cells within the sensory cellarea and which are involved in the sensorimotor performance to beenhanced, wherein inputting the at least one bias signal improves thefunction of the sensory cells, and wherein the neuroplasticity is atleast one of central neuroplasticity and peripheral neuroplasticity, thesystem comprising: a wearable device to which is secured at least onesignal input device, wherein the at least one signal input device isrepositionable on the wearable device; and a signal generator forgenerating a bias signal, wherein the signal generator iscommunicatively coupled to the at least one signal input device.
 72. Thesystem of claim 72, wherein the signal generator includes a powersource, a signal processor and a controller.
 73. The system of claim 73,wherein the signal processor includes a calibration module for adjustingthe bias signal produced by the signal processor.
 74. The system ofclaim 72, wherein the wearable device is adapted to forcibly press thesignal input device to the subject's skin surface.
 75. The system ofclaim 72, wherein the wearable device is composed of stretchable fabric.76. The system of claim 72, wherein the signal generator isrepositionable and removably attached to the wearable device.
 77. Thesystem of claim 72, wherein the signal input device is electricallyconnected to the signal generator.
 78. The system of claim 72, whereinthe signal generator is communicatively coupled to the signal inputdevice by an electrical conductor, at least a portion of the electricalconductor being secured within the wearable device and protected by thewearable device.
 79. A method of enhancing sensorimotor performance in asubject comprising the steps of: inputting a stimulation to at least onesensory cell area of the subject, the stimulation being at least one ofan aperiodic stimulation and a subthreshold stimulation; moving,according to a virtual reality system, at least one body segment of thesubject relative to another simultaneous with the step of inputting astimulation to at least one sensory cell area of the subject, whereinthe at least one body segment utilizes sensory cells within the sensorycell area that is involved in the sensorimotor performance to beenhanced; and inducing neuroplastic changes in the nervous system of thesubject by inputting the stimulation for a period of time long enoughthat the subject's sensorimotor performance is enhanced.
 80. A method ofenhancing sensorimotor performance in a subject comprising the steps of:moving, according to a virtual reality system, at least one body segmentof the subject relative to another, wherein the at least one bodysegment utilizes sensory cells within the sensory cell area that isinvolved in the sensorimotor performance to be enhanced; and inducingneuroplastic changes in the nervous system of the subject by moving theat least one body segment according to the virtual reality system for aperiod of time long enough that the subject's sensorimotor performanceis enhanced.